A new communication support system employing a tablet computer

A new communication support system has been developed for assisting elderly people communicating by telephone and e-mail. The system consists of a conventional tablet computer, a computer-telephony interface board, a microphone, a speaker, a telephone line and the Internet. The tablet liquid crystal screen (TLCS) is used as a display device and an entry device, instead of a keyboard. When an elderly person telephones or sends an email, they then choose a communication person from the registered support personnel pictures displayed on the TLCS. The computer dials or sends e-mail, which is directly handwritten on the TLCS. When their home system receives a telephone call or e-mail, the computer displays the calling communication person's picture and name on the TLCS. The elderly person can therefore easily recognize and verify the person. Since this newly-developed communication support system does not employ a keyboard, it is easily operated by elderly persons.