Ageing well
Australia, like many other countries around the world, has a looming aged care crisis. Over the next 45 years the number of Australians aged over 65 is expected to double.
At the same time, social isolation amongst our elderly population is becoming more prevalent. A 2008 report by the State Government of Victoria showed there are currently over 50,000 socially isolated Victorians over the age of 65 years, and this number is expected to increase to 75,000 by 2020 - a growth rate of 46 percent.
Broadband technologies can help to address these problems by enabling people to retain their independence in their old age, and live in their own homes for longer. Broadband technologies also provide opportunities for people to engage socially, utilise their skills, and continue lifelong learning opportunities. They also help people to have easier access to the health care system – for example video conferencing from home to local GPs and specialists.
IBES has been driving an agenda in the provision of broadband-enabled aged care services. Researchers are focused on how technologies can be designed to encourage uptake and use, as well as exploring technology-enabled aged care in other countries.
Research Projects
- Ageing well at home with broadband
- Smart Companion: medication management for older people with chronic illness
Completed
- Mobile and broadband technologies for ameliorating social isolation in older people
- Smart technologies for older people: a systematic literature review of smart technologies that promote health and wellbeing of older people living at home.
- Smart homes for the elderly: recent developments in Korea