In 1991, Mark Weiser expressed the novel idea of future computers that are so embedded in everyday life that they are "indistinguishable from it". This idea of pushing the computer into the background of homes and businesses, now commonly known as ubiquitous computing, is rapidly coming to fruition. As we have discussed in previous versions of this Digital Home series, variations of this movement include automated household tasks, smart appliances and smart homes. But a new interested aspect has appeared in recent years which can only be called the Personalized Digital Home.

What we are experiencing today is a growing interest in the aesthetics and the enjoyable aspects of the use of technology, in the office, at home and in public spaces. In the face of such remarkably fantastic technological creations, products, and services it is easy to forget the emotional aspects of user experience.  Ubiquitous computer systems will be used in tomorrow's home infrastructure to provide experiences and services that are aware of users' needs.

Home dwellers and especially disabled and elderly people can be provided with services such as remote operating appliances, home entertainment and other communication services that can bring comfort to these previously disadvantaged groups. Technology in the home environment can help people take control of their domestic life by reminding them about meetings, appointments, tasks, by communicating with distant family members, by enabling them to work from home, helping them with their home management, saving energy, and perhaps in the future even optimizing resources. New portable devices can provide for the needs of a wide variety of users.

Difficulties in operating household appliances as well as in performing other daily chores are part of the effects - both sensory and cognitive - of growing older. Apart from economic factors and motivations, recent efforts in the development of hardware and software solutions to these problems with what is called assistive technology  show the importance of improving the quality of life of older people and the disabled. Smart homes, telecare, telehealth and telemedicine are practical applications of technology in the home environment, all oriented to allow people to remain in their homes with a good quality of life. Memory aids and reminiscence exercises are examples of these possibilities. With assistive technology, older people can remain in their own homes longer, thus saving money on expensive state provided care. New technologies can also lessen the risks of accidental physical damage existing in the home environment, provide new answers to old problems and have an impact on a great concern of the elderly: safety.

It’s long been known that people with a sensory impairment learn to obtain information from a different sense. These people can also  benefit from the diverse output modalities by which their PDA, PC, Personal Home Server or cell phone can deliver whatever information is needed. Connectivity to the outside world as well as awareness of the immediate home environment can provide the user with valuable everyday information. The prevention of injuries due to the use of assistive technology and environmental interventions might also help to reduce health care costs.

A house suitable for the aging has to meet various requirements, encompassing safety and security, comfort, communication and energy saving. The ultimate goal will be the development of homes that are not specially designed for older or disabled people but ones that accommodate people's needs as time goes by. Older people expect and experience functional decline over time. However, the rate of decline can be slowed, with technology and certain in-home personnel costs reduced by the introduction of assistive technology and environmental interventions. Ultimately, the use of home-based assistive technology will promote a much greater functional independence for most people as they age.