Usable Technology for Older People:
Inclusive and Appropriate
UTOPIA (Usable Technology for Older People: Inclusive and Appropriate) is a three year SHEFC-funded
consortium project between the universities of Dundee, Abertay, Glasgow and Napier. The project
was established in recognition of the significant demographic changes which are taking place
in Scotland and the rest of the developed world, but which do not appear to have greatly
influenced those sectors of industry concerned with mainstream technology. Despite a
significantly ageing population these industries have remained focused on designing for
young people; a dramatically shrinking market segment.
The UTOPIA project aims to address the relationship between older people and technology in three ways:
1. Developing a methodological approach to design for older people.
2. Exploring relevant application areas.
3. Influencing industry to recognize the issues involved in designing for older people
and the necessity to do so.