Features

How many times have you heard it - sixty is the new forty; buzz words like Silver Surfers; and marketing catchphrases like Greys Matter?

The truth is that thanks to better diet and modern medicine, more of us are living longer, healthier lives. Sounds great doesn't it? But there's always a downside - some of us are going to need a little bit of help.

The Look North special report series Greys Matter is taking a look at how new ideas are either making, or are about to make, a real difference.

And because the market is growing, the cost of the technology needed is tumbling.

Scientists at Newcastle University have developed a test-bed kitchen which could tell us when we're out of something, or just running low. It could even display recipes using a screen.

Not only that, the same kitchen will tell us when we've left the tap running, the kettle on or, possibly, alert a carer should we need assistance.

On the mobility front you'll be relieved to know there's a price war looming on stairlift technology which will enable more of us to stay at home without spending a fortune.

We also examine a "wheelchair in a pod" idea which would provide help for people who only need a wheelchair occasionally.

And in a third piece we look at a new trend in housing - specialised apartment blocks for the over 55s only.

When the children leave home, increasing numbers of parents are selling up, downsizing and enjoying life with the money left over.

Far from being forgotten these days, greys really do matter. And as more of us get older, greys will matter even more.