Low-tech gadgets have biggest impact for older people, research finds

Led by Dr Vikki McCall at the University of Stirling in partnership with Stonewater Housing Association (opens new window), the study, funded by the Longleigh Foundation (opens new window), sought to find out how technology could best support retired living residents.

Researchers found gadgets like Fitbits, hot water dispensers, jar openers and smart speakers, which enabled small changes to the day-to-day life of residents, had a transformative effect on their wellbeing and safety.

The research included interviews with staff and residents at four Stonewater retired living accommodation sites across England, to identify which technology might improve living and working conditions. The technology or ‘gadget’ was then introduced, with researchers recording people’s experiences.

The findings are contained in a new report ‘Promoting Inclusive living via Technology-Enabled Support’, which makes a number of recommendations for UK and devolved Governments, local authorities and housing associations, as to how assistive and everyday technologies can be implemented to improve the quality of life of residents and promote inclusive communities.