Fundamental Needs in Intelligent Environments: Specificities for Older Adults

Abstract

Older adults have specific needs and abilities reflected by their decline, activities and use of technology. First, we present their cognitive, physical, physiological, and sensory characteristics, and their impact on fundamental needs. Then, we suggest and discuss dedicated systems exploiting intelligent environments to support physical and mental health, prevent falls and alert, multiply social contacts, and ensure self-esteem. Besides, proper design of arbitrary services must incorporate safety, integration, variability, senses, acceptance, and memory. Our most significant contribution is to provide the first overview of older adults' specific needs in intelligent environments.