Policies on Ageing well with ICT

European policy makers, civil society, professional organisations and the industry have developed a European blueprint to address the challenges in innovating better health and care provisions for the ageing society.

Ageing is one of our major societal challenges and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is key for tackling it. The European Union actively supports and provides funding for research and innovation in ICT and ageing well.

The Active and Assisted Living (AAL) programme supports applied research on innovative ICT-based services for ageing well. The programme contributes to increased efficiency and productivity in the ageing societies of the EU, while extending the time people can live in their preferred environment. The programme supports carers, families and care organisations and contributes to the reduction of the costs of health and social care across the European Union.

Digital technology can help older people to stay healthy, independent and active at work or in their community for longer and it helps to improve our quality of life.

With the help of ICT, care can be offered in an integrated way; no longer in an institution, but in the own home environment.

Service and care robots could play a supportive role in the life of many chronic patients and senior citizens who want to live independently for longer. The European Commission funds research, innovation and development activities for service robotics in assisted living environments.

What have European experts come up with to improve health and care with the help of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)? Have a look at an overview of the most current (on-going or recently finished) EU-funded projects in the field of eHealth, wellbeing and ageing.