Al-Tamimi, A.-K. orcid.org/0000-0003-2459-0298, Hewitt, L. orcid.org/0009-0000-6459-8695, Cameron, D. orcid.org/0000-0001-8923-5591 et al. (2 more authors) (2025) Challenges of integrating assistive technologies and robots with embodied intelligence in the homes of older people living with frailty. Applied Sciences, 15 (15). 8415. ISSN: 2076-3417
Abstract
The rapid increase in the global population of older adults presents a significant challenge, but also a unique opportunity to leverage technological advancements for promoting independent living and well-being. This study introduces the CIREI framework, which is a comprehensive model designed to enhance the integration of smart home and assistive technologies specifically for pre-frail older adults. Developed through a systematic literature review and innovative and comprehensive co-design activities, the CIREI framework captures the nuanced needs, preferences, and challenges faced by older adults, caregivers, and experts. Key findings from the co-design workshop highlight critical factors such as usability, privacy, and personalised learning preferences, which directly influence technology adoption. These insights informed the creation of an intelligent middleware prototype named WISE-WARE, which seamlessly integrates commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) devices to support health management and improve the quality of life for older adults. The CIREI framework’s adaptability ensures it can be extended and refined to meet the ever-changing needs of the ageing population, providing a robust foundation for future research and development in user-centred technology design. All workshop materials, including tools and methodologies, are made available to encourage the further exploration and adaptation of the CIREI framework, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in the dynamic landscape of ageing and technology. This research contributes significantly to the discourse on ageing in place, digital inclusion, and the role of technology in empowering older adults to maintain independence.
Metadata
Item Type: | Article |
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Authors/Creators: |
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Copyright, Publisher and Additional Information: | © 2025 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). |
Keywords: | gerontology; smart homes; geriatrics; assistive technologies; middleware; innovation management; user-centred design; digital transformation; technology-enabled care |
Dates: |
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Institution: | The University of Sheffield |
Academic Units: | The University of Sheffield > Faculty of Social Sciences (Sheffield) > Information School (Sheffield) |
Depositing User: | Symplectic Sheffield |
Date Deposited: | 04 Aug 2025 10:10 |
Last Modified: | 04 Aug 2025 10:10 |
Status: | Published |
Publisher: | MDPI AG |
Refereed: | Yes |
Identification Number: | 10.3390/app15158415 |
Sustainable Development Goals: | |
Open Archives Initiative ID (OAI ID): | oai:eprints.whiterose.ac.uk:229993 |