Will technological innovation create the true lifetime home?

Abstract

This paper discusses the relationship between different forms of design and technological innovation and their ability to support older people in their own homes. It considers (1) innovation in the design and construction of new housing, notably ‘lifetime homes’ and ‘open building’ systems; (2) the introduction of electronically enhanced assistive technology; and (3) telecare. Each of these is examined in terms of its potential benefits for meeting the housing needs of older people and its limitations. The paper proposes that these innovations are likely to have a variable effect on the possible housing pathways of older people, depending on the way they are combined. It also outlines the policy and market influences that may stimulate their adoption, concluding that design and technology innovations must be matched by new care delivery models.