TECH4LIFE

The TECH4LIFE project investigates the impact of wearable technology and artificial intelligence on the quality of life of citizens of the Republic of Croatia, with a particular focus on physical and mental health and well-being, everyday functioning, leisure, mobility, and digital inclusion. The aim of the project is to identify the theoretical and practical preconditions for the optimal use of these technologies in everyday life and to provide recommendations for their integration into national digital strategies.

The project adopts an interdisciplinary approach through both quantitative and qualitative research, with an emphasis on national relevance and contribution to the digital transition. Special attention is devoted to groups at risk of social exclusion, such as older adults, persons with chronic illnesses, and persons with disabilities.

Project outputs include policy recommendations and guidelines for decision-makers, scientific publications, and educational and science-communication activities. The project contributes to scientific excellence, strengthens collaboration with industry, and reinforces social responsibility. It is aligned with national and European Union strategic documents and supports the strengthening of national capacities in the fields of digital health and artificial intelligence.

The project further promotes digital inclusion, enhances the visibility of Croatian science, and strengthens the position of Croatia as an innovative society at the intersection of health and technology.

Project Objective

Main objective:

To analyse and evaluate the impact of (wearable) technologies and artificial intelligence on the quality of life of citizens of the Republic of Croatia, and to identify the theoretical and practical prerequisites for their optimal application in the areas of physical and mental health and well-being, everyday functioning, leisure time, and mobility.

Specific objectives:

1. To analyse the potential of (wearable) technologies and artificial intelligence to improve the quality of life of citizens of the Republic of Croatia, with a focus on physical and mental health and well-being, everyday functioning, leisure time, and mobility.
2. To contribute to the digital transition of Croatian society by identifying the theoretical and practical prerequisites for the optimal application of (wearable) technologies and artificial intelligence in everyday life, with potential applications in healthcare, education, sports, and care for older adults and people with disabilities.
3. To examine the level of citizens’ acceptance of and trust in (wearable) technologies and artificial intelligence-based systems, taking into account digital competencies, data privacy, and ethical considerations.
4. To develop recommendations for national digital transformation strategies that incorporate the integration of (wearable) technologies and artificial intelligence into public services and everyday life.
5. To foster cooperation among the scientific community, the IT sector, and the public sector in developing the digital competencies of citizens of the Republic of Croatia related to the use of (wearable) technologies and artificial intelligence for monitoring and improving physical and mental health.
6. To contribute to strengthening national research capacities in the fields of (wearable) technologies and artificial intelligence, and to facilitate the transfer of knowledge and competencies through educational and science-popularisation activities.