Future of an Ageing Population

Future of an Ageing Population | Physical, Social and Technological Connectivity
Demonstrators of innovative and disruptive technologies can enable people to
experience novel technologies such as pervasive computing or smart homes,
and promote awareness of potential developments 186 . Further development of
standards may be important for helping with trust and confidence: for example
a new International Standard (ISO 13482) has recently been released to
address safety standards for personal care robots, which could lead to greater
consumer trust and confidence 186,230 .
Government has the potential to continue to embed digital inclusion in policy
outcomes, and require that ICT products, systems and services paid for by
the government include design features that are appropriate for older people.
Some potential technological solutions for an ageing population may require
innovative business models to make them financially sustainable, for example
those requiring significant up-front expenditure, because older people may not
want to spend money on or be able to afford these technologies. Government
could consider playing a role in supporting these innovative business models,
properly quantifying the benefits of successful outcomes (like keeping people
mobile) and ultimately helping with costs for those unable to pay.
Whatever initiatives are undertaken, there is always likely to be a group who remain
unengaged with technology and who may require a different type of support.
Policy Implication
Technology can help to provide the solutions to challenges faced by the
ageing population, and help to realise the benefits of longer lives. Barriers
include a lack of skills and access, high cost, and older people’s assumptions
about technology’s usefulness and affordability.
7.5 Increasing links between virtual and physical connectivity
The distinction between physical and virtual connectivity will be less relevant
in the future, as tools for digital connectivity will increasingly have the potential
to enhance physical mobility. For example, through providing live departure
information about buses on the internet or via text message (see Box 7.1 for
other examples). However, as with other technologies for digital connectivity,
there are barriers to the use of these tools.
‘Smart’ transport systems use technology within the transport system or
linked systems to provide benefits, such as more personalised, efficient or
safer transport. However, these systems need to be supported by suitable
compatible technology, data and system infrastructure. Government may need
to consider who can co-ordinate this infrastructure.
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