The AAL Association will announce the 4^th Call for proposals of the AAL Joint Programme: “ICT based solutions for Advancement of Older Persons’ Mobility”.

The call aims at ICT based solutions which help older persons to sustain their optimal level of mobility for as long as possible, enhancing their individual sense of confidence, autonomy, competence, security and safety.  The call addresses issues that inherently enable older persons’ mobility in the sense of moving in the home and/or outside the home. The following topical areas are in the scope of the Call:

1. Orientation and navigation (may include aspects of physical and cognitive training)

2. Assistive Technology

The maintenance of mobility is thought to be fundamental to active aging, allowing older adults to continue to lead dynamic and independent lives.  Furthermore, mobility is an important element of integration in society and thus a vital factor for perceived good quality of life in old age. A person who is mobile can perform autonomously (several) activities of daily life, can keep up his/her social network, can perform voluntary work, or leisure activities. The greater the level of mobility, the greater is the potential for autonomy with respect to independent living, socialising and contributing to the local community. Moreover, health and quality of life benefits from moving.

It is anticipated that the call will be launched end of March 2011, with a proposal submission deadline end June 2011.

Information event (“Info Day”)

The information event will take place on 7^th April 2011, in Brussels. All potential proposers are strongly advised to come to the information event, and those wishing to attend should register their interest by sending an e-mail to Jacqueline.Teller@aal-europe.eu before 24^th March 2011.