Graceful aging through technology

Canadian society is aging rapidly. And as the baby boom generation reaches retirement age, the result could be costly, both for society and for individuals because of the need for medical treatment, long term care or hospitalization.

Computer Science Professor Ron Baecker directs U of T’s Technologies for Aging Gracefully Lab (TAGLab). He believes that technology can help people to adapt to the aging process and continue to live healthy, worthwhile lives in their own homes.

“Our focus is research and development in support of aging throughout the life course, including cognition, communication, and social interaction,” Baecker says. “We identify ‘sweet spots’ where technology seems relevant to human need, envision ways in which technology could address those needs, and then design, build, test, and, where possible, commercialize those solutions.”

On Wednesday, October 2, TAGLab is inviting the U of T community, as well as seniors and colleagues, to an Open House to view some of those solutions, including devices and technologies to help seniors and others engage with their families and friends, record their life stories and more. “We’ll also be unveiling our new website,” Baecker says.

“A growing number of seniors use computers and the Internet at home,” he says. “So we employ a variety of technologies to help meet the needs of older adults. Some of our projects build upon this trend by developing applications for desktop and laptop computers, while others target mobile phones or tablets. In some cases, we push the boundaries of technology to develop ‘ubiquitous computing’ devices that use sensors and ambient displays.”

The open house takes place Wednesday, October 2, from 4 to 8 p.m., 7th floor of the Bahen Centre, southwest corner.  Some of what you’ll see:

• TalkRocket Go and RocketKeys: a context-aware mobile device to help people speak; and a flexible, accessible keyboard, products created by lab alumnus MyVoice Inc.
• Accessible Large-print Listening and Talking eBook: a device to help people who have vision loss and motor difficulties to read, and to read together with families
• Multimedia Biographies: to capture life histories and support recall and reminiscence
• InTouch: a digital picture frame and web portal to combat isolation and loneliness
• VocabNomad: providing English language learners with the vocabulary that they need when they need it

To RSVP, email the lab at inquiries@taglab.ca.

Terry Lavender is a writer with University Relations at the University of Toronto.