Presentation
Designing Technology for Older Adults With Cognitive Impairments
DescriptionAs the population ages, we will see a dramatic increase in the number of people experiencing various age-related cognitive impairments ranging from subjective cognitive decline to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to forms of dementia. For example, MCI, which is a transitional stage between normal aging and dementia, currently impacts 17% of the older adult population. Fortunately, technology solutions offer tremendous potential to support the well-being, quality of life, social connectivity, and independence of the growing population of older adults with a cognitive impairment (CI). Unfortunately, older adults with a CI are often underrepresented in the technology design process. The mission of the Enhancing Neurocognitive Health, Abilities, Networks, & Community Engagement (ENHANCE) Center is aimed at understanding the challenges older adults with a CI confront in everyday and community living; improving interactions with technology among older adults living with a CI due to stroke, traumatic brain injury, or MCI. We are investigating the potential of existing and emerging technologies to support their needs and designing novel technology solutions to support community engagement and independent living. In this state-of-the-science workshop, participants will learn about the diverse needs and abilities of older adults experiencing CI, the challenges they encounter in everyday living, how technology solutions can support them, and how the design process must be modified to accommodate cognitively diverse groups of older people. Case examples will be presented to demonstrate accommodations and special considerations needed for this population for the entire design cycle, from the needs assessment phase to the usability and efficacy testing phases. An emphasis will be given to the diversity and time varying needs of aging adults with a CI. The session will include interactive design exercises. The session is appropriate for individuals of various backgrounds (industry, academia, government) and levels of knowledge and skill. Lessons learned will be relevant to the successful design and implementation of any technology-based intervention aimed at supporting older adults with CI. Skills and knowledge gained will facilitate the successful realization of the promise of existing and emerging technologies to support the large, growing, and diverse aging population with cognitive impairments.
Presenters
Professor of Psychology in Medicine
Gladys and Roland Harriman Professor of Medicine
Khan Professor of Applied Health Sciences
William G. Chase Professor of Psychology
Event Type
Workshop
TimeMonday, September 9th1:30pm - 5pm MST
LocationFLW Salon B