The Design for All Paradigm in the Development of Applications to Support Older Adults: A Review

Objectives - This study reported in this article aimed to identify: i) the concerns of the actual research related to the application of the Design for All paradigm in the development of information technology applications to support older adults? ii) the types of applications based on information technology that are being developed according to the Design for All paradigm to support older adults; and iii) the maturity level of these applications. Methods - A systematic review was performed based on a search of the literature. Results - A total of 31 proof-of-concepts prototypes were identified targeting the following application areas: special purpose machines, virtual assistants, social networking, messaging services, intelligent environments, information services and healthcare. Conclusion - Although the studies included in this systematic review present positive impact of the application of the Design of All paradigm, there is a lack of robust trials with strong experimental evidence.