Which Home Technologies Promote Well-Being in Aged Population? A Technology Readiness Level Analysis

The current global demographic shift towards an aging population is substantially impacting the need for suitable home technologies that can improve the well-being, safety, and comfort of older individuals. However, it is widely recognized that not all technologies developed by engineers reach end-users, and even when they do, they may not be ready for practical application. Considering this, this study aims to address the questions: What are the home technologies that promote well-being in older people, as per the literature? What is the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) for these technologies? To answer these questions, a specific type of literature review known as a scoping review was conducted. A total of 2704 studies were analyzed from various databases, and 24 were included. Six groups of technologies were identified with a mean TRL of 7.5 (SD = 1.5). 1) ICT, 2) Smart home platforms, 3) Applications, 4) Robotic assistive devices, 5) Augmented reality, and 6) Videogames. 75% of the technologies (Groups 1, 2, and 3) were implemented on tablets, smartphones, and smart home platforms (high TRL), indicating that they function effectively in environments where ageing population live. This suggests that new technical developments can potentially start with these technologies. Assistive robotics are still in the laboratory stage (middle high TRL). Augmented reality and videogames represent fewer options for older individuals (low TRL), and further research is needed to enhance the level of evidence for their use.