Older persons and new technologies: a smart mix

Older persons and new technologies: a smart mix

- A session at WSIS Forum 2019, Geneva

Monday, April 8 2019, from 4:30pm to 6:15pm, Room TBC 

This event is organized by ITU, CSEND and AARP. 

Demographic shifts mean that many countries around the world have aging populations and that there is growing demand for newer technologies that better meet the needs of older persons. Among other things, information and communication technologies (ICT) have extraordinary potential to help with the response to the demands of this demographic shift, including meeting the challenges of a shrinking workforce and improving healthcare and caregiving for older persons.  Importantly, older persons are also tech entrepreneurs, investors in tech, tech employees and consumers of ICTs.  Game-changing new technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, drones and robotics are already being harnessed by and for older persons to create opportunities and improve older persons’ well-being. Accessible ICTs, assistive devices and smart living environments also allow older persons to maintain their independence and autonomy longer, while enhancing their dignity and safety.   These technologies can also increase the capacity of human care givers, who can focus on activities that need quality human interaction.

At the same time, there are also key challenges that need to be addressed, including accessibility of these technologies and digital skills for older persons. They are generally less connected than younger persons and there are stereotypes to be overcome about older persons’ interest and capacity for digital skills and tech entrepreneurship. There are also instances of exploitation of older people as consumers online. It is important that these technologies are developed and introduced with respect for older persons’ rights, including their autonomy, dignity and privacy, and with their participation.

This event will explore how older persons are using ICTs to ensure positive change for themselves and others, manage age-related challenges, and overcome risks, barriers and stereotypes.  It will include speakers from a variety of stakeholder groups.