Participatory Research in Technology and Aging: Challenges and Lessons
Older adults are living longer, more fulfilled lives aiming to maintain their quality of life and independence for as long as possible. Information technology can become a useful tool for early identification of changing conditions in health and well-being, and early intervention, as well as for ongoing customized monitoring. As we design, implement and evaluate new technology enhanced platforms for residential settings and communities that support aging, community-based participatory research can empower individuals to inform the design of meaningful IT Solutions. We present findings followed to guide the design and implementation of IT tools, building on strengths and resources within communities and facilitating collaborative involvement of all stakeholders. The first study focuses on “smart home” technologies for older adults in an independent retirement facility, and the second one on an integrated information system that enables comprehensive assessment of wellness for community dwelling older adults.
George Demiris is an Associate Professor of Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Systems at the School of Nursing and Biomedical and Health Informatics at the School of Medicine, University of Washington. He is the Director of the Clinical Informatics and Patient Centered Technologies Program, and Graduate Program Director of Biomedical and Health Informatics. He obtained his MSc degree in Medical Informatics from the University of Heidelberg, Germany and His PhD degree in Health Informatics from the University of Minnesota. His research interests include the design and evaluation of home based technologies for older adults and patients with chronic conditions and disabilities, Smart Homes and Ambient Assisted Living application and the use of telehealth in home care and hospice. He is the Chair of the International Medical Informatics Association (IMIA) Working Group on Smart Homes and Ambient Assisted Living, the Chair of the Human Factors Special Interest Group of the American Telemedicine Association (ATA) and the Lead Covener of Technology and Aging Special Interest Group of the Gerontological Society of America (GSA).