Beyond "Assistive": Four Tensions in the Design of AAL Based on the Capability Approach

The capability approach claims that when it comes to welfare, the focus should not lie on means and outcomes, but opportunities. Ambient and assistive technology (AAL) can act as an enabler, but is rarely explicitly designed on principles derived from this framework. In this provocation paper, we provide a critical reflection on AAL systems for older adults based on the capability approach by exploring four types of tensions: human vs. AAL care, paternalism vs. autonomy, individual vs. communityand empowerment vs. productivity. We argue for implementing capability concepts in the design of AAL systems to improve dignity and welfare.