EC funds research into tech for older people

The European Commission (EC) wants more technology suited for older people and has pledged €1bn (£676m) to get the ball rolling.

The European Action Plan for “Ageing Well in the Information Society”, backed by the new research fund, is aimed at improving the life of older people at home, work and in society in general through the use of appropriate information and communications technology (ICT).

According to the EC, most older people are not getting a lot from the digital innovations such as low-cost communications and online services. Only 10 per cent use the internet and a combination of severe vision, hearing or dexterity problems frustrates one in five of the over-50s who want to use technology.

“Europe's ageing population is a challenge for our job market and its social and health systems,” said Viviane Reding, EU Commissioner for the Information Society and Media.

“But it is also an economic and social opportunity. ICT will provide new and more accessible products and services that meet the needs of older people. These two initiatives will mobilise digital technologies that will improve the daily lives and social participation of older people and create new opportunities for Europe's industry.”

By 2020, 25 per cent of Europe’s population will be over 65, according to EC statistics. Even though spending on pensions and healthcare is going to rise as a result, the EC pointed out that older Europeans have a combined spending power of €3,000bn.

Find out more about the Action Plan here.