Active ageing and the role of ICT and assistive technologies : reflections and discussion for their use in Portugal

This paper aims to collect and discuss data about the role of ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) for the old people and active ageing. Because there is not known any kind of this research in Portugal about active ageing and ICT it is important to start with a literature review, present and reflect on the good examples and the recommendations gathered and published worldwide. The paper also aims to provoke within the Portuguese society a deep discussion towards the assumption of political decisions in order to include old people as a part of the «Knowledge Society». The Portuguese society is getting older so there is an obligation to provide conditions and policies for active ageing for the old people by the inclusion of ICT and/or Assistive Technologies