This presentation will introduce participants to the concept of aging with a disability and how technology can reduce barriers and facilitate engagement in preferred activities. First, an overview of the research center will be provided along with a case study illustrating how technology can remove obstacles and enhance participation in chosen activities. Next, the technology-related needs of older adults will be examined and how these needs guide the center's research efforts. The session will conclude with a summary of one of the development projects from the center. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the concept of aging with a disability with the presenters. You can find the presenter bios attached to this message.
Presenters
Laura A. Rice, PhD, MPT, ATP, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health and Kinesiology in the College of Applied Health Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign. She is the Associate Director of CHAD (Center on Health, Aging, and Disability), Program Director of CARD (Collaborations in the Advancement of Research on Disability), Director of Graduate Studies in Health and Kinesiology, and Director of the DPQoL (Disability, Participation, and Quality of Life) Research Laboratory. Her research focuses on the management of secondary impairments associated with physical disabilities and increasing quality of life and community participation. In addition, Dr. Rice is interested in developing outcome measures to evaluate functional mobility skills. Dr. Rice’s research is funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, Craig H. Neilsen Foundation, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Dr. Rice also remains active as a Seating and Mobility Specialist. She is a RESNA-certified Assistive Technology Professional and director of the Illini Wheelchair and Scooter clinic. She received her PhD in Rehabilitation Science and Technology from the University of Pittsburgh in 2010 under the direction of Michael Boninger and a M.S. in Physical Therapy and B.S. in Health Sciences from Duquesne University in 2004 and 2003 respectively.
Wendy A. Rogers, PhD, is Khan Professor of Applied Health Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She is a Certified Human Factors Professional (BCPE #1539). She is Director of the McKechnie Family LIFE Home; Program Director of CHART (Collaborations in Health, Aging, Research, & Technology); and Director of the Human Factors and Aging Laboratory. Her research focuses on advanced technology design to support autonomy of older adults, with and without disabilities. She explores the benefits of technologies including robots, smart-home technology, digital health, wearables, and telehealth for cognitive, physical, and emotional health.
Topics:
Aging
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Health and Wellness
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Long-term Services and Supports
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Technology
