Technology and social care in a digital world : challenges and opportunities in the UK

Purpose: Technology enabled care (TEC) equipment has been a part of adult social care (ASC) in most areas of the UK for decades. More recently commissioners have been exploring mainstream technologies’ potential to support older people living in the community. This general review paper examines the challenges and opportunities presented by the growing application of mainstream technologies in ASC against the backdrop of the planned UK-wide switchover from analogue to digital telecommunications by 2025.

Approach: This general review uses research evidence, literature, industry standards and policy documents to address the challenges presented by the UK’s digital switchover and the potential role of mainstream technologies such as ‘smart speakers’ in ASC.

Findings: The use of digital TEC and mainstream devices in ASC bring challenges related to 1) access to reliable internet connections in parts of the UK; 2) the need to update TEC safety standards; 3) the ethics, privacy and data security measures that ensure digital products and services safeguard the interests of users; and 4) evidence and commissioning practice.

Originality/value: This general review explores emerging areas of policy and research related to the planned UK digital switchover and the use of mainstream technologies in ASC. It offers a conceptual approach and suggests ways forward for research, regulatory and commissioning agendas.