Advanced Technologies, Wearable Devices and Smartphones: Improving Accessibility and Inclusion for Older and Disabled People

Dear Colleagues,

Technologies, including artificial intelligence, deep and machine learning, the Internet of Things, camera vision and robotics, have the potential to help overcome the barriers to autonomy experienced by disabled and older people. Wearable devices are increasingly popular and can provide hands-free use or be incorporated into or look like garments, reducing stigma. Smartphones have considerable potential due to their widespread adoption, high and increasing processing power and provision of sensors. Technological advices present considerable opportunities for personalised and context-aware solutions. For instance, AI could be used to provide real-time speech transcription, gesture recognition or navigation assistance tailored to user preferences. However, there are also challenges and risks, including ensuring full accessibility and avoiding control and bias and managing privacy and security issues and an appropriate balance between technological and human assistance. The Special Issue invites contributions that explore innovative applications of technologies including AI, IoT, sensors, wearable devices and smartphones to improve the accessibility, autonomy and participation of disabled and older people. Submissions may include case studies of new devices and systems or end-user involvement in design, experimental research, literature reviews, and interdisciplinary approaches that bridge technology, healthcare, employment or education, and social sciences. All papers should have an original contribution.

Dr. Marion Hersh
Dr. Barbara Leporini
Guest Editors

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