HCI challenges for consumer-based aging in place technologies

Abstract

New, innovative technologies provide promise in helping older adults to age in place. However, the success of the technology and acceptance of it by the target users will be dependent on both function, i.e., whether it provides a worthwhile service, and the user experience, i.e., how easy it is to achieve the intended function. In this paper, we discuss the challenges in human-computer interaction (HCI), in the context of our experience with two applications designed to support older adults. The first is an in-home sensor system for detecting early signs of health changes and managing chronic health conditions. The second is an interactive remote physical therapy system that connects a therapist in the clinic with an older adult in the home. An overview of each application is presented. We discuss HCI challenges across these two applications.