Home technology design for the cognitively impaired

Motivation - To prolong functional independence of elderly persons who experience cognitive decline in attention, perceptual encoding, memory and self-efficacy. Research approach - Ability of older adults to use domestic appliances depends on their mental model of operation. This may depend on transfer of understanding from similar, more familiar technology. Leveraging established mental models creates affordances for operating new technology but may constrain the discovery of advanced functionality. Familiar mental models may also interfere with developing appropriate mental models or interaction behaviour. Findings/Design - Designing appliances to extend cognitive abilities provides opportunity to prolong functional independence. Concepts from cognitive psychology, human factors, and gerontology are reviewed to explain age-related behaviour towards technology to support innovative product development of technologies for older adults with cognitive impairment. Take away message - The understanding of declining cognitive abilities must drive the development of technologies that sustain the independence of persons who are cognitive impaired.