Tackling the Challenge of the Aging Society: Detecting and Preventing Cognitive and Physical Decline through Games and Consumer Technologies

Healthc Inform Res. 2017 Apr;23(2):87-93. doi: 10.4258/hir.2017.23.2.87. Epub 2017 Apr 30.

Abstract

Objectives: This study seeks to review some of the approaches employed to address health and well-being issues in the elderly population.

Methods: This article reviews and analyses a range of projects and approaches designed for the elderly population and aimed at preserving and/or enhancing physical and cognitive capabilities in later life.

Results: Various intervention measures have been developed across the globe to preserve and/or enhance physical and cognitive capabilities of the elderly population. A selection of these measures is described in this article.

Conclusions: Approaches which combine games psychology and mechanics with enabling technologies designed to engage, influence and motivate elderly people can encourage healthy active aging lifestyles. Healthy active aging helps to realise a double dividend of reduced healthcare costs and an improved quality of life for the elder citizen.

Keywords: Aged; Aging; Cognitive Therapy; Exercise Therapy; Technology.

Publication types

  • Review