Technology, ageing and human rights: Challenges for an ageing world

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Assistive Technology
• Human Rights in Technology Integration

Background:

• Global populations are aging, increasing the need for supportive technologies.
• Technology offers potential benefits for older adults, including those with dementia.
• Existing research highlights the growing interest in technology's role in elder care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze technology's role in supporting daily living, social engagement, and mobility for older persons.
• To advocate for a human rights-based framework for evaluating assistive technologies.
• To examine technology's impact on privacy, dignity, liberty, and equitable access for the elderly.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and analysis of existing research on technology and aging.
• Conceptual framework development based on human rights principles.
• Case study analysis (implied) of technology implementation in elder care settings.

Main Results:

• Technology can significantly improve quality of life for older adults.
• A human rights-based approach is essential for ethical technology deployment.
• Key considerations include user autonomy, privacy, dignity, and accessibility.

Conclusions:

• Technology adoption must prioritize user rights and well-being.
• Equitable access to beneficial technologies is a critical concern.
• Further research is needed to refine human rights-based assessment tools for assistive technologies.