2015: 24th Annual John K. Friesen Conference "Harnessing Technology for Aging-in-Place" May 14-15, 2015: SESSION 6 - Panel 4 – Technologies for Fun, Socializing and Building Community

This conference will explore the range of technologies available or under development for adults 55+ in British Columbia looking to age in place. These include “smart” homes and "smart" cars, wearable sensors, websites, smart phone and tablet applications for use by seniors, caregivers or family living at a distance who want to stay in touch, electronic health records and more. Keynote speakers and expert panels will discuss the pros and cons of each option and the type of senior for whom it is best suited. To the extent possible research findings and consumers’ first hand reactions to current and emerging aging-in-place technologies will be presented. The objective of the conference is to provide information that will enable people aged 55+ to plan ahead and make informed choices about whether to stay put in their current home or move to alternative accommodation. As well, it will provide a forum for developers (private & non-profit) to learn what adults aged 55+ are looking for in the way of housing and supports for their later years. Andrew Sixsmith PhD, Professor and Director, SFU Gerontology Research Centre (GRC) & President, International Society for Gerontechnology, Friesen Conference ChairGloria Gutman PhD, Professor/Director Emerita SFU GRC & Dept. of Gerontology, Friesen Conference Program Chair & Conference Manager;Habib Chaudhury PhD, Professor and Chair, SFU Department of GerontologyRaymond G. Adams MLIS, Information Officer, SFU GRC Host organizations:Simon Fraser University Gerontology Research CentreAGE-WELL Network NCE, North American chapter of the International Society for GerontechnologySimon Fraser University Lifelong Learning Adult 55+ ProgramWe also gratefully acknowledge a grant from the SFU Library's Scholarly Digitization Fund for videography and post-production editing.