MODULAAR – CHANGED QUALITY OF LIFE THROUGH AMBIENT ASSISTED LIVING (AAL) SYSTEMS? – A COOPERATIVE PROJECT WITH THE AUSTRIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (AIT)

Background: Ambient assisted living (AAL) systems are age-appropriate assistance systems which promote a healthy and independent life. The Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) conducted the first longitudinal section study... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
Ambient assisted living (AAL) systems are age-appropriate assistance systems which promote a healthy and independent life. The Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) conducted the first longitudinal section study in Austria (ModuLAAr) identifying the impact of AAL on the quality of life of 50 elderly participants in a rural area in Austria.

Method:
The study investigates the impact of the use of the ambient assisted living system ModuLAAr on the quality of life of elderly people living in assisted flats or their own homes, as well as which parameters influence their quality of life in the context of the ModuLAAr Project. Quantitative questionnaires (WHOQOL-BREF, WHOQOL-OLD, TA-EG und EQ-5D-5L) measuring quality of life, affinity to Technology and health status, as well as qualitative interviews, sociodemographic information and tracking data were analysed.

Results:
The quality of life, the domains Social Relationships and Participation of the WHO questionnaires and sense of security increased. The health features of ModuLAAr were most commonly used.

Conclusion: Due to these positive results further studies should be conducted to investigate the potential role of occupational therapists in the context of ambient assisted living and other innovative technologies.

Application to Practice:
Information and Communication technologies support occupational therapy to assist elderly people engaging in their occupations and staying independent in their own homes.