Introduction: Technological challenges for gerontologists in the 21st century

Senior citizens, health care providers, educators, and researchers are witnessing a technological explosion that is changing the way in which services are provided and received. Although technology can be a powerful force to improve communication and quality of life, it often is adopted without clear guidelines. However, despite this, technology continues to transform how education, research, and policy are implemented. The challenge for the 21st century is to ensure that technology not only promotes quality education and lifestyle practices for older persons, but also that society as a whole is safeguarded through the use of ethical frameworks and standards for its use.