Facing the future: The case of the Response Centre of Tromsø Municipality

Abstract

Introduction. The increased demands put on the health and care services coupled with technological developments have formed an impetus for the implementation of assistive (or, welfare) technologies in the Norwegian health and care sector. Methods. We discuss the organization and functionality of a unit that monitors and coordinates the use of these technologies, named a ‘Response Centre’ in a Norwegian municipality. Results. We briefly present some of the assistive technology devices in current use, and discuss some ethical dilemmas that arise with their implementation in the care of the elderly and disabled. Conclusion. Assistive technolgies are likely to become increasingly important in the health and welfare sector as the proportion of eldery persons increases.