Smart Technology for Aging, Disability and Independence: The State of the Science (Hardcover)

Description:

Independent living with smart technologies

Smart Technology for Aging, Disability, and Independence: The State of the Science brings together current research and technological developments from engineering, computer science, and the rehabilitation sciences, detailing how its applications can promote continuing independence for older persons and those with disabilities.

Leading experts from multiple disciplines worldwide have contributed to this volume, making it the definitive resource. The text begins with a thorough introduction that presents important concepts, defines key terms, and identifies demographic trends at work. Using detailed product descriptions, photographs and illustrations, and case studies, subsequent chapters discuss cutting-edge technologies, including:
* Wearable systems
* Human-computer interactions
* Assisted vision and hearing
* Smart wheelchairs
* Handheld devices and smart phones
* Visual sensors
* Home automation
* Assistive robotics
* In-room monitoring systems
* Telehealth

After considering specific high-technology solutions, the text examines recent trends in other critical areas, such as basic assistive technologies, driving, transportation and community mobility, home modifications and design, and changing standards of elder care.

Students and professionals in the rehabilitation sciences, health care providers, researchers in computer science and engineering, and non-expert readers will all appreciate this text's thorough coverage and clear presentation of the state of the science.

 

Table of Contents:

I. Introduction.

II. Key Terms: Technology, Aging, Disability and Independence.

III. Demographics of Aging and Disability.

IV. A Model For Viewing Research and Development in Technology, Aging, Disability, and Independence.

V. Addressing Impairment (Motor and Movement, Vision, Hearing, and Cognition), Pain and Fatique.

VI. Personal Assistance.

VII. Consumer Perspective.

UNIT I. SMART TECHNOLOGY FOR AGING, DISABIITY AND INDEPENDENCE.

Chapter 2. Home Automation and Smart Environments to Support Independence.

I. Introduction.

II. The Underlying Technology of the Smart House.

III. Overview of the State of the Science in Smart Homes and Smart Home Components and Related Issues.

IV. Smart House Construction - An Architect's Perspective.

Chapter 3. Robotics.

I. Introduction.

II. Personal and Assistive Robotics.

III. Other Issues Related to Robotics.

IV. Summary.

Chapter 4. Other Devices and High Technology Solutions.

I. Smart Technology for People with Vision Impairment.

II. Smart Technology for People with Hearing Impairment.

III. Smart Technology for People with Mobility and Movement Impairments.

IV. Other Devices.

UNIT II. RELATED ASPECTS OF AGING, DISABILITY AND INDEPENDENCE.

Chapter 5. Telehealth.

I. Introduction.

II. State of Science: Today's Telehealth Devices.

III. Caregiver Issues.

IV. Legal and Financial Issues.

V. Current Limitations and the Future.

Chapter 6. Basic Assistive Technology.

I. Introduction.

II. Low Technology Devices and Impairment.

III. Funding for Assistive Technology in Us.

IV. Resources for Assistive Technology.

Chapter 7. Elder Drivers and Technology.

I. Introduction.

II. Elders And Driving.

III. Older Driver Interventions And Technology.

IV. Conclusion.

Chapter 8. Transportation and Community Mobility.

I. Introduction.

II. Public Transit and Disability.

III. Pedestrian Infrastructure - Roadway and Access Improvements.

IV. Use of Low and High Tech Mobility Devices to Increase Community Mobility.

V. Summary.

Chapter 9. Home Modifications and Universal Design.

I. Introduction.

II. Home Modifications.

III. Universal Design.

IV. Use of Low and High Tech Mobility Devices to Increase Community Mobility.

V. Summary.

Chapter 10. Injury Prevention and Health Promotion.

I. Introduction.

II. Falls.

III. Medication Errors.

IV. Fire.

V. Poisoning.

VI. Nutritional Health.

VII. Conclusion.