Impact of Technology on the Quality of Life of Elderly People in Smart Villages: Literature Review

Abstract

This review delves into how technology can positively affect the lives of older adults living in smart villages—a fusion of modern technology with rural lifestyles aimed at improving living conditions. While gerontechnology presents an opportunity to mitigate the effects of aging and the application of intelligent solutions in rural settings is on the rise, our examination uncovers a dynamic mix of both prospects and hurdles, highlighting the need for broader, interdisciplinary studies. The prevalent research tends to concentrate on the technological, energetic, and agricultural aspects, often overlooking the importance of social services and care for the elderly. Through a detailed examination, we’ve pinpointed several areas lacking in research, such as the necessity for long-term studies, the involvement of users in the design process, and thorough economic evaluations, as well as the need to address ethical, privacy, and societal concerns. Our analysis indicates that, although technological progress offers the potential to significantly improve the lives of seniors in smart villages, fully achieving these advantages necessitates bridging these identified research voids. Future studies should focus on creating accessible, user-focused technologies and approaches that cater to the varied needs and wishes of the elderly, through joint initiatives spanning healthcare, technology innovation, urban planning, and social studies. Adopting this comprehensive strategy will not only improve the quality of life for the elderly but also acknowledge their significant contribution and value in the context of smart villages, aligning with IFAC’s mission to leverage innovation and technology for enhancing human life quality.