FROM LOOM TO TABLET DEVICES. HEALTH PERSONNEL'S VIEW ON TECHNOLOGY AS A TOOL FOR PREVENTING FUNCTIONAL DECLINE IN OLDER PEOPLE LIVING AT HOME

Welfare technologies, often referred to as "Ambient Assisted Living (AAL)" technologies are expected to play major roles for future challenges to the overburdened health care systems, and to achieve public goals to ensure Active Ageing. The purpose of this study has been to elicit health providers' assessments of internet connected tablets as a tool and strategy to promote health and prevent functional decline in older people. The study has an exploratory, descriptive design. Nine health providers with different backgrounds, consented to participate in focus group interviews. They suggested several opportunities for AAL technologies, and acknowledged potentials for prevention of functional decline. They also expressed concerns and challenges about the use of the technologies when caring for the elderly.