Acceptance of telecare technologies in the home is strongly influenced
by factors that relate to dwelling design and the ways in which indep
endent living is promoted. The experience to date of personal response
systems (and services) provides some indication of the reasons why us
ers may either resist their introduction or not use such technologies
after they have been introduced. Telecare systems and services are poi
sed to incorporate medical and other sensors, so that the manner of th
eir provision, installation and control becomes an important considera
tion for service providers. A clear ethical framework is called for.