Evaluation of Selected Technologies Improving the Quality of Life of Older Adults Using the Saw Method

The ageing population poses a significant challenge for science and technology policy development in developed countries. The concept of “healthy life expectancy” now includes not only lifespan but also the quality of those years, focusing on health and autonomy. Active and healthy ageing enables the elderly to maintain well-being in physical, social, and mental aspects, encouraging their societal contribution while ensuring necessary security and care. This ageing paradigm is supported by innovative technologies designed to assist the elderly. However, the literature lacks a comprehensive evaluation of technologies aimed at improving the quality of life for older adults, underscoring the necessity for theoretical investigation and practical research in this area. This article aims to assess and prioritize selected technologies designed to enhance the quality of life for older adults, as perceived by potential users. The ranking was established using the Simple Additive Weighting method. Through a comprehensive literature review, technologies that significantly improve the quality of life for the elderly were identified. These technologies were then assessed by individuals over 40, chosen for their immediate relevance given their current applicability to their elderly parents and their potential use within the next two to three decades. The article answers the following research questions: 1) What criteria are used to assess technologies that enhance the quality of life for the elderly? 2) Based on these criteria, how did potential users assess the selected technologies? 3) How is the SAW technique utilised to establish a hierarchy of the chosen technologies that augment the life quality of the elderly? 4) Among the technologies evaluated, which one received the highest rating from potential users?