Dreiländereck, April 10, 2025 - Under the motto "Aids and assistance technologies for older people in rural areas", the event series "Citizens meet science" took place on Thursday in cooperation with the Dreiländereck adult education center. The focus was on technical innovations designed to enable older people to live longer, independent lives in their own homes - even in places where support services are scarce.

The event offered visitors the opportunity to experience the latest developments in the field of Active Assisted Living (AAL) at first hand. The presentation by Maria Fabisch, head of the laboratory in the research area of the same name, aroused particular interest. She presented a model apartment in which age-appropriate assistance technologies are demonstrated in a practical way - from safety and communication aids to health-promoting gadgets.

A particular highlight was the use of VR glasses, which demonstrated how virtual technologies can enrich life in old age - whether for entertainment, mental stimulation or as part of mobility therapy. Many guests took the opportunity to try out various devices for themselves and talk to the experts.

"We don't just want to show people technology here, we want to invite them to think and help shape it. Especially in rural areas, it is important to work together to find solutions that really improve everyday life." - Maria Fabisch

The event offered a lively exchange between science and everyday experience. Participants were able to describe their own challenges and provide ideas on what future developments should take into account.

The "Citizens meet science" dialog format once again made it clear that technical innovations are not an abstract vision of the future, but can already provide valuable support for older people today - provided they are geared towards people's real needs. The evening was not only informative, but also inspiring - and a successful example of how science can find its way into everyday life.