Gerontechnology and Human Old Age: Between Support and Dehumanisation

Jolanta Izabela Wiśniewska

doi:10.71358/ijpint.2666

Published: 2025-12-22

Vol. 12 No. 2 (2025)

Gerontechnology and Human Old Age: Between Support and Dehumanisation

Jolanta Izabela Wiśniewska

Section: Articles

https://doi.org/10.71358/ijpint.2666

Abstract

The article addresses the use of modern technologies, particularly gerontechnology, in relation to the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of human ageing. It demonstrates how technologies can support the physical and mental health of older adults as well as their social participation, while simultaneously creating ethical challenges that may lead to the dehumanization of old age. The aim of the article is to present gerontechnology as a field positioned between providing genuine support for older adults and the risk of limiting their agency and reducing their needs to a purely technical dimension. The issues discussed are situated within research in the humanities of ageing (humanistic gerontology) as well as studies on education and digital literacy in later adulthood. The proposed approach is positioned between technological optimism and critical reflection on processes of dehumanization. The study takes the form of a theoretical and critical analysis of the relevant literature, complemented by a review of websites presenting selected technological devices for older adults.

Keywords:

gerontechnology, ageing, quality of life of older adults, digital competences in later adulthood, ethical aspects of new technologies

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Wiśniewska, J. I. (2025). Gerontechnology and Human Old Age: Between Support and Dehumanisation. International Journal of Pedagogy, Innovation and New Technologies, 12(2), 43–51. https://doi.org/10.71358/ijpint.2666

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