Abstract
Functional independence remains a key component of the emotional and psychological well being of older adults. One method of aiding older adults in retaining their independence is through the use of technology. While researchers have addressed issues that relate the needs and characteristics of older adults to the design of such an environment, many issues remain unexamined. The matters of acceptance, comfort, and perceived usefulness are crucial to the implementation of the technology. A structured interview with 17 older adults aged 65 to 75 were conducted in a technology-rich home environment, with the aim of examining these concerns first-hand. Two devices are discussed using preliminary qualitative results to compare the conditions of their acceptance.
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