Quality of Life Technology

An umbrella term encompassing technologies designed to maintain or enhance the health, functioning, and independence of older adults and people with disabilities. Quality of life technology includes assistive technology, smart home systems, telemedicine, health monitoring devices, mobility aids, and intelligent systems that detect problems and provide assistance. The term emerged from the NSF-funded Quality of Life Technology Engineering Research Center, a partnership between Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh. Unlike traditional assistive technology focused on specific impairments, QoLT emphasizes a holistic, human-centered approach to supporting daily living.