Analyse assistive living technology for an individual in terms of: a. benefits, b. risks, c. challenges.

For this assessment criterion, you will be required to analyse assistive living technology (ALT) for an individual in terms of benefits, risks and challenges. Some examples of assistive living technologies were provided in the previous section.

When considering the use of ALT for an individual, it is useful to assess whether it is, in fact, suitable for their needs. Of course, it should be beneficial for the individual but we will also need to analyse the potential risk of using an AT and successful implementation will be dependent on overcoming any challenges or barriers that may be present.

Benefits

Benefits could include:

• Increased independence for the individual
• Keeping the individual safe
• Reducing the stress on family/carers
• Improved quality of life
• Increased mobility

Risks

Risks could include:

• Can facilitate isolation if technology replaces human interaction
• Mass-produced solutions may not take into account the individual’s unique needs, wishes and preferences
• Individuals may forget to use the ALT
• ALTs that track the location of an individual could impact their right to privacy
• Risks related to the ALT not working correctly or breaking
• The individual may become too reliant on the technology

Challenges

Challenges could include:

• The individual not motivated or interested in using the ALT
• Issues relating to consent in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005
• Costs
• There may be a steep learning curve to using the ALT effectively