Assistive Tech

Planning for aging in the community and planning for people with disabilities go hand in hand. Disabilities are more common among older populations, and the long-term effects of COVID-19 and chronic diseases will increase the number of people affected by cognitive disabilities as they age. The tech sector has increasingly shown an interest in helping people with impairments or disabilities navigate the world. Not only are Big Tech's major players improving the accessibility of their products, but a separate market for assistive tech, such as sensory and mobility aids, is emerging, as is the potential to print prosthetics.

But while the ubiquity of assistive tech may facilitate some solutions to aging in the community, planners must still work to promote the built environment and design solutions. Read PAS Report 579, Planning Aging-Supportive Communities, and PAS Memos "Planning Accessible Communities" and "Autism Planning and Design Guidelines 1.0" for more about how to plan with an accessibility mindset that addresses the needs and comfort of all community members, regardless of physical or neurological ability.