This volume provides a detailed examination of changes in technology that impact individuals as they age with an emphasis upon cultural contexts and person-environment fit from human factors, psychological, and sociological perspectives.

The editors take into consideration the role of macro-influences in shaping technological changes in industrialized societies that effect successful aging in terms of quality of life. Topics discussed include: human factors and aging; the impact of the internet; and assistive technology. As a special feature, each chapter is followed by two commentaries from experts in the same and neighboring disciplines.

Preface

1. Technology Design, Usability, and Aging: Human Factors Techniques and Considerations, W.A. Rogers and A.D. Fisk

Commentary: Access, Motivation, Ability, Design, and Training: Necessary Conditions Older Adult Success with TechnologyN. Charness
Commentary: Is It All About Aging? Technology and Aging in Social ContextM.A. Hardy and C.L. Baird
2. Human Factors and Aging: Identifying and Compensating for Age-related Deficits in Sensory and Cognitive Function, F. Scheiber

Commentary: Aging Effects on Vision: Impairment, Variablility, Self-Report and Compensatory ChangeD.W. Kline
Commentary: Using Technology to Lower Ageís Perceptual and Cognitive Hurdles: Schieber Lists some Known and Neglected and New and Needed Ways J.L. Fozard

3. The Impact of the Internet on Older Adults, S.J. Czaja and C.C. Lee

Commentary: Applying Research: The NIHSeniorHealth.gov Project R.W. Morrell, S.R. Dailey, and G.K. Rousseau
Commentary: Social Aspects of GerontechnologyJ.C. Thomas

4. Assistive Technology, W.C. Mann

Commentary: Next Steps in Home Modification and Assistive Technology ResearchL.N. Gitlin
Commentary: Assistive Technology: Potential and Preconditions of Useful ApplicationsH. Mollenkopf

5. Impact of Everyday Technology in the Home Environment on Older Adultsí Quality of Life, H.W. Wahl and H. Mollenkopf

Commentary: The Nested Context of Technology: A Response to Wahl and MollenkopfR.J. Scheidt
Commentary: Gerotechnology and the Home EnvironmentG. Gutman

6. Technology and the Promise of Independent Living for Older Adults: A Cognitive Perspective, L.L. Liu and D.C. Park

Commentary: Technology as Environmental Support for Older Adultsí Daily ActivitiesD. Morrow
Commentary: Using Technology to Foster Engagement and Improve Health in Elderly PersonsS.H. Gueldner and S.J. Loeb