Independence, Technology, and Connection in Older Age

Abstract

Technology has played an important role in increasing life expectancy, but it also has an important role to play in increasing the quality of life, by maximizing Americans’ ability to function in their later years. Following up from their 2015 report, “Aging America & Hearing Loss: Imperative of Improved Hearing Technologies,” the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) extends their analysis of technology applications for elderly individuals to examine its assistance in cognitive and physical ability, emotional health, and social connectivity. PCAST offers a series of recommendations across government agencies and the private sector to develop and regulate technologies to improve the lives of older Americans, including expanded broadband access, more effective monitoring systems, and increased oversight of financial services for fraud and exploitation.