International projects
Older People and Technological Innovations
Organisations (1)
Abstract
This pan-European project involved England, Scotland, Germany, The Netherlands and Slovenia, and questioned whether current approaches to introducing new technologies are the best way of enabling older people to learn about and use technology in their everyday lives. Promoting and enhancing the use of ICT with older people was viewed as particularly important as new technologies can enhance access to information, education and support, which can in turn improve physical, psychological and social wellbeing. The project team therefore explored whether learning based on self-directed interaction and supported engagement could:enhance the opportunities for older people, and their supporters, to engage with existing, new and emerging technologies,generate new insights and applications of existing, new and emerging technologies,identify potential future applications for new technologies that can enhance the health and wellbeing of older people.In the workshops play and interaction were used as the main method of enabling people to engage with new and existing technologies. The workshops used touch screen technologies, gaming stations, mobile telephones, traditional computers or tele-care equipment designed for use in health and social care situations. As part of the project funding older people taking part in the project had the opportunity to travel to other European locations to share their local learning experiences with their peers in other countries and settings. Evaluation of the older people’s experiences were captured through structured evaluation forms. Through supported engagement in six cross partnership workshops it was found that older learners gained enhanced1 - learning about new and emerging technologies2 - skills and experience of new and emerging technologies3 - greater awareness of how technology can enhance quality of life, health and wellbeing4 - cultural awareness and connectedness with their peers in other European countries.
