Canadian Policy and Aging in Place: The Importance of Assistive Technology and Information and Communication Technology

This capstone project critically analyzes Canadian policy initiatives and aging in place in relation to the enhancement of home and community services through the implementation of assistive technology and information and communication technology. A review of the literature reveals that policy and funding arrangements may be impeding the delivery of health and community care services and the accessibility of assistive technology and information and communication technology that support aging in place. It is proposed that underlying factors have created a long history of favouring acute care over home and community care and this tendency is currently reflected in reactive initiatives concerning the potential of assistive technology and information and communication technology. The project provides recommendations for future policy initiatives in regards to a technology strategy specifically designed for home and community care’s prevention and maintenance function with the intention of improving opportunities for aging in place.