Challenges of Integrating Assistive Technologies and Robots with Embodied Intelligence in the Homes of Older People Living with Frailty

The rapid increase in the global population of older adults presents a significant challenge, but also a unique opportunity to leverage technological advancements for promoting independent living and well-being. This study introduces the CIREI framework, which is a comprehensive model designed to enhance the integration of smart home and assistive technologies specifically for pre-frail older adults. Developed through a systematic literature review and innovative and comprehensive co-design activities, the CIREI framework captures the nuanced needs, preferences, and challenges faced by older adults, caregivers, and experts. Key findings from the co-design workshop highlight critical factors such as usability, privacy, and personalised learning preferences, which directly influence technology adoption. These insights informed the creation of an intelligent middleware prototype named WISE-WARE, which seamlessly integrates commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) devices to support health management and improve the quality of life for older adults. The CIREI framework’s adaptability ensures it can be extended and refined to meet the ever-changing needs of the ageing population, providing a robust foundation for future research and development in user-centred technology design. All workshop materials, including tools and methodologies, are made available to encourage the further exploration and adaptation of the CIREI framework, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in the dynamic landscape of ageing and technology. This research contributes significantly to the discourse on ageing in place, digital inclusion, and the role of technology in empowering older adults to maintain independence.

What is it about?

The study introduced the CIREI framework to enhance the integration of smart home and assistive technologies for pre-frail older adults. This framework was developed through a systematic literature review and co-design activities, capturing the needs and preferences of older adults, caregivers, and experts. Key findings from the co-design workshop identified usability, privacy, and personalised learning preferences as crucial factors influencing technology adoption. These insights informed the creation of an intelligent middleware prototype named WISE-WARE, which integrates commercial off-the-shelf devices to support health management and improve life quality for older adults. The CIREI framework's adaptability allows it to be extended to meet the changing needs of the aging population. The study provided workshop materials, tools, and methodologies to encourage further exploration and adaptation of the framework. This research focused on the intersection of frailty mitigation and smart living environments to support well-being and independence in older adults.

Why is it important?

This study is important as it introduces the CIREI framework, a comprehensive model designed to integrate smart home and assistive technologies specifically for pre-frail older adults. By focusing on the nuanced needs and challenges faced by this demographic, the research provides a robust foundation for enhancing independent living and well-being among older adults. The study's insights into technology adoption factors such as usability, privacy, and personalised learning preferences are crucial for developing user-centered technology solutions. The framework's adaptability ensures its continued relevance in addressing the evolving needs of the aging population, contributing significantly to the discourse on aging in place, digital inclusion, and empowerment through technology.

Key Takeaways:

1. The CIREI framework effectively captures the needs and challenges of pre-frail older adults, caregivers, and experts, offering a structured approach to integrating smart technologies for enhanced well-being and independence.

2. Usability, privacy, and personalised learning preferences are identified as critical factors influencing the adoption of smart home technologies, highlighting the need for user-centered design in technology solutions for older adults.

3. The development of the WISE-WARE middleware prototype demonstrates the practical application of the framework, showcasing how commercial off-the-shelf devices can be integrated to support health management and improve the quality of life for older adults.