The Potential of Assistive Technologies in Facilitating Better Health and Social Care in China

Abstract

The article presents findings of a research project on housing and care models that support aging in place. It explores the role of home–based assistive technologies in achieving aging in place in the Chinese urban context. It reviews research underpinning assistive technologies to understand their development and conceptualization globally and in China. There is a growing need to find solutions that help older people to age well in their own homes. Older people’s wish to remain independent for as long as possible is also a positive outcome that can alleviate the increasing demand on the health and social care systems. This study used three focus groups in Beijing to explore personal safety, access to health and social care, and social inclusion. The findings provide recommendations to support the design of age–friendly environments that are technologically enhanced to enable better health, safety, independence and a sense of community in China.