Information and communication technology for increasing healthy ageing in people with non-communicable diseases: identifying challenges and further areas for development

Abstract

Information and communication technology (ICT) within healthcare covers a range of technologies that aim to improve disease management or help modify health behaviors. We discuss clinical practice and system-related ICT challenges in Europe in relation to healthy ageing in people with non-communicable diseases (NCD). Although ICT use within healthcare is increasing, several challenges remain, including: (i) variations in ICT use within Europe; (ii) under-use of electronic health records; (iii) frequent use of single domain outcomes; (iv) shortage of clinical trials on current technologies; (v) lack of involvement of patients in ICT development; (vii) need to develop and adapt ICTs for people with cognitive or sensory impairment; and (viii) need to use longitudinal big data better. Close collaboration between key stakeholders (academia, biopharmaceutical and technology industries, healthcare, policy makers, patients, and caregivers) should foster both technological innovation and innovative models to facilitate more cost-effective approaches, ultimately leading to increased healthy ageing.