Research on Welfare Technology for Elderly Self-determination and Social Participation in Sweden

スウェーデン　ニ　オケル　コウレイシャ　ノ　ジコ　ケッテイ　ヤ　シャカイ　サンカ　ニ　ムケタ　ウェルフェア　テクノロジー　ニ　カンスル　ケンキュウ

クボタ, レイ

Kubota, Rei

Sociology, Anthropology and Philosophy, Graduate School of Human Sciences, Osaka University

自己決定

社会参加

高齢者ケア

スウェーデン

welfare technology

self-determination

social participation

care for the elderly

Sweden

Research Notes

In Japan, technology introduction for elderly care is drawing attention as one solution to care workers’ shortage. Conversely, in Sweden, there is a movement to introduce technology from the perspective of well-being, such as elderly self-determination and social participation based on “welfare technology” (WT) concept. This study aimed to clarify its impact on self-determination and social participation of the elderly through Swedish policies and activities. As a research method, websites and reports of relevant ministries and municipalities were investigated. Furthermore, case studies were conducted in two municipalities in Sweden. From these survey results, it was found that the WT concept was accepted and its use was promoted because the elderly is familiar with the use of assistive devices. Therefore, technology introduction enabled the elderly to arrange their lives, such as being involved in making their own care plans and going out freely. Alternatively, as digitization is taking place in areas closely related to daily life, such as banking and medical care, it became clear that civic groups that support technology use to prevent the elderly from becoming isolated also play an important role.