Due to demographic change, the proportion of the population aged 65 and above is increasing, and, with it, the number of people who either want or need technological support in their everyday lives. Everyday technological support can be a key element in supporting people aged 65 and above in accordance with their needs, reducing the burden on carers and relatives in a sensible manner and preventing further increases in costs. With suitable technological support, people can remain independent in their daily lives in the home they are used to for as long as possible in accordance with their wishes. However, technical solutions must correspond to people’s actual needs and be easy to handle if they are to be utilised by the target group of people aged 65 and above and be seen as helpful.

In order to support the development of suitable technologies, the Interdisciplinary Competence Centre for Ageing (IKOA) at the FHS St.Gallen is setting up a living lab that will span the whole of Switzerland. Unlike traditional laboratories, in this living laboratory, people who are at least 65 years old will test and evaluate the technical-assistance systems directly in their own everyday living environment. During the testing phase, which will span several months, the users will be given comprehensive support by the IKOA-FHS specialists. The senior citizens are at the heart of this approach, making them the key factor of innovation development.

Living Lab Flyer.pdf