The Big Q

Will assistive technology in people’s homes allow many more to live
independently?

Jean Stogdon – Grand parents Plus

Telecare could be good if it enables people to live more
independently. But I’m sceptical when ministers claim it is not
intended to replace human contact. Vulnerable people need to be
able to contact another human being if they want to do so.
Technology cannot be a substitute, but could end up being one.

Karen Shook – Disability equality adviser
Technology can make a huge difference to disabled people.
I use the internet every week to do my shopping because it saves
time and energy. But technology should not be at the expense of the
individual’s right to choose assistance. A techno-buddy that
washes, dries and dresses you is no substitute for human contact!

Angie Lawrence – Single mother

This is a good initiative. It will help vulnerable people feel more
independent and therefore give them more dignity, while at the same
time still feeling safe by knowing that help is at hand. My concern
would be that this technology does not replace human contact.
Independence can turn into isolation if not handled carefully.

Len Smith – Gypsy activist
So long as the aims are adhered to and no human contact
is replaced, telecare should be another tool to help improve
quality of life for older or vulnerable people. Useful information
accessible by television, for example, will be easily understood by
older people. Well designed programming could make vulnerable
people feel less excluded.