The present volume is concerned with gerontechnology - the study of technology and ageing with the aim of improving the functioning of older people in daily life. The Second International Conference on Gerontechnology with the subtitle “A sustainable investment in the future” was held in Helsinki in October 1996 under the auspices of COST-A5 “Ageing and Technology” and STAKES, the Finnish National Research and Development Centre for Welfare and Health. More than 400 scientists and professionals participated in this conference which means a threefold increase of interest in the field over a period of five years. As a result of this it was decided to establish the International Society for Gerontechnology, a society that will take up the challenge to further develop the field.

The present book is the result of the contributions to the Helsinki conference. Part 1 of the book is a compilation of the keynote addresses describing the background for and the conditions under which the emerging field of gerontechnology can be developed further. The chapters deal with political, socio-economic, ethical, demographic issues related to gerontechnology. Furthermore, methodological approaches in human factors, ergonomics and industrial design are described. Trends in technological developments and innovations conclude the first volume.

The second part presents some 80 case studies, divided over 9 sections (1) perception and cognition, (2) communication technology, (3) mobility and transport, (4) health and home care technology, (5) housing, (6) training and education, (7) safety and security, (8) product design and (9) culture and attitudes.

It is hoped that the present bookmarks the beginning of an era in which more technology will be developed to serve the ageing population in our society, a truly sustainable investment in our future.

Jan Graafmans

Vappu Taipale

Neil Charness