Improving the Quality of Life for the European Citizen

This work reports on the third congress organized by TIDE (Technology Initiative for the integration of Disabled and Elderly people). TIDE has contributed to enhancing independent living and social integration through technological applications, and has also contributed to the creation of a market in new products and services which meet the needs of elderly and disabled people. This publication covers three themes: accessibility and design for all; users and user empowerment and involvement; and assistive technology research and technological developments. Factors that support the uptake of assistive technologies, such as standards, legal and economic factors, are also considered.