Technology for all

Abstract

Merkel, Heinze, Hilbert, and Naegele focus on the benefits that modern technology offers for active ageing. The chapter concentrates on three different areas: information and communication technologies (ICT), housing, and mobility. The authors analyse current developments and trends in each of those areas and also focus on challenges. They argue that despite its potential, the adoption, implementation, and diffusion of innovative technologies are behind expectations. Europe is presently facing a deployment gap: research and development efforts on the one hand and only limited market success on the other. The authors explore the reasons for the deployment gap and, moreover, provide examples of good practice and conclude with recommendations for further research as well as implications for policy and practice.