Assistive Technology Devices for the Oldest-Old: Maintaining Independence for the Fourth Age

User interface design needs to be revisited for our oldest members of society. The literature has shown that over the age of 70 increasing numbers of older people find it difficult to learn, and the rapid changes in technology and associated interfaces make it particularly difficult for our oldest citizens to participate in the digital age. Focused on aged care residents, this is a perspective paper, outlining the needs and suggesting avenues for research in this under researched population of technology users. Also explored in attempts to overcome digital exclusion are the assistive technologies that aid members of this fourth age, as well as their family and professional carers.