The House of Lords Science and Technology Committee have a sub-committee examining the scientific aspects of ageing.

They have a special section on Assistive Technology and Telecare and have invited personal submissions from some well known people in the field.

ICES
The DOH have a particular interest in the more widespread integration of assistive technology aids and devices into older people’s care. Their website www.icesdoh.org.uk (where ICES is an acronym for Integration of Community Equipment Services) has an excellent update on developments in the field.

Telehealth
There have been numerous Telehealth and Telecare Conferences throughout the Summer and while it is not possible to mention them all here, a Google search of ‘Telehealth and Telecare in the UK’ will provide details of both forthcoming events as well as those you’ve missed!

Useful definitions
‘Assistive Technology’ is any aid or device which allows someone to perform a function they couldn’t otherwise perform’. Some devices are mechanical e.g. the Zimmer Frame.

‘New technology devices’ is self-explanatory. 

‘Telecare’ is derived from ‘tele’ meaning distance and ‘care’. So, it is usually interpreted as, ‘providing care at a distance’.

Assistive technology
The Foundation for Assistive Technology has a fascinating website at www.fastuk.org

Intelligent hearing aid
The latest device I’ve encountered is the ‘whispering hearing aid’. It was developed by the Imperial College for computer companies including Intel, using micro-miniaturization and ultra low battery consumption technology. Its role in elderly care (apart from a hearing aid) is orientation, transmission of information e.g. naming people in a crowded room and medication compliance. Can readers think of other uses? 

Funding for integration
The DOH distributes money each year, dedicated to the integration of Assistive Technology devices, including Telecare, into mainstream care. It’s called the ‘Access and Systems Capacity Grant’ and is a useful source of funding despite its anonymous title.

Autumn meeting parallel session
The New Technology in Elderly Care SIG is holding a parallel session at the BGS Autumn Conference in 2005. Anyone willing to present their project please contact me at:
email me

Tracking and Tagging 
A European Conference on ‘Electronic Tracking and Tagging in Older People with Dementia and Wandering’ will be held at Charing Cross Hospital on 1st March 2005

Frank Miskelly
Chair : New Technology in Elderly Care SIG