Global ageing is a challenge, particularly with the high speed of the ageing process. As the orientation toward nuclear families without extended family members is growing and the number of children is decreasing, fewer senior citizens in developed countries live under the same roof with their children as in past decades. Families are less and less able to provide support and comfort for older people. Social communities are expected to secure the quality of life of senior citizens as well as their ability to lead a self-reliant, autonomous life. Social policies emphasize ageing in place and therefore the enhancement of neighborhoods and community resources. Digital technologies can contribute to the welfare of the elderly, as they offer communication opportunities, safety functions or health support. More and more the question of enabling contacts and service provision is increasingly based on access to broadband and ICT.

In this essay the question is pursued as to which extent new intelligent devices in senior households, often referred to as Ambient Assisted Living (AAL), increase comfort and safety, provide support and facilitate social contact for elderly people in their homes. Already by now, older people are able to use assistive technologies on a regular basis and in very different ways. Modern user interfaces empower senior citizens, ensuring information and entertainment of the Internet. AAL technologies do not diminish direct social contact, but strengthen the sense of belonging by offering new possibilities of getting and keeping in contact.