There is a worldwide need for intelligent technologies to support the well-being, autonomy, and social integration of vulnerable segments of society, especially those consisting of older adults. This special session will explore the wide-ranging applications of intelligent technologies, including smart environments, assistive devices, AI-driven tools, and wearable health monitors, that enhance the lives of the elderly. Emphasis will also be laid upon the sociological dimensions of ageing, recognising that technology adoption and effectiveness depend on social factors such as digital literacy, cultural attitudes, and community engagement.
By combining technological innovation with a focus on social well-being, the session will highlight how intelligent environments can address the physical, emotional, and social needs of our elders. Key themes include, but not limited to, how smart homes and IoT devices promote independence, how AI-based solutions support mental and physical health, and how digital platforms enhance social connectivity and reduce isolation. We shall also explore the role of sociotechnical design, ensuring that technological solutions are socially inclusive and accessible to ageing populations with varying levels of tech literacy.
Through the various expected presentations, there will be opportunities for interactive discussion between experts from various disciplines, including Information T echnology, social sciences, healthcare, and gerontology, creating a holistic understanding of how intelligent environments can improve the quality of life for older adults.
Key topics will include:
– Smart living environments and IoT: Enhancing autonomy, safety, and social connections.
– AI-driven support systems: Virtual companionship, mental health support, and personalised care.
– Wearable health-monitoring technologies: Tracking physical health, cognitive function, and social engagement.
– Assistive technologies and robotics: Supporting mobility, accessibility, and independence while fostering social interaction.
– Sociotechnical approaches: Incorporating cultural sensitivity, digital literacy, and community support into technology design for the elderly.
– Digital platforms for social inclusion: Promoting engagement, communication, and reducing isolation through virtual communities and lifelong learning.
By integrating both technological and sociological perspectives, the overall aim is to inspire new approaches for developing intelligent environments that are not only efficient but also socially inclusive and culturally aware.
Special Session Chair:
Dr. Roushdat Elaheebocus
Senior Lecturer at the University of Mauritius with expertise in Social Computing, Exergames, IoT , and Digital Health Solutions. Dr. Elaheebocus has contributed to multiple research focused on intelligent environments, ageing, and the sociocultural impacts of technology. He has published extensively on creating inclusive, accessible digital solutions, addressing both the technological and social dimensions of various segments of the population.
Expected Contributions:
This special session is expected to attract academic submissions from a variety of disciplines, including IT , sociology, healthcare, and gerontology. Submissions may focus on:
– Innovations in smart home and IoT environments for elderly care.
– Sociotechnical analysis of assistive technologies in promoting autonomy and social inclusion.
– The impact of digital literacy and cultural attitudes on technology adoption by older adults.
– Case studies on AI-driven health monitoring systems that integrate social and health data.
– Research on digital platforms that reduce isolation and promote community engagement among the elderly.
This session will provide a platform for critical reflection on how intelligent technologies can meet the evolving needs of ageing societies, with a focus on enhancing autonomy, health, and social inclusion for older adults. By considering both the technological and sociological aspects of ageing, the session will contribute to the development of resilient, adaptable environments that address current and future challenges in elderly care.