Social Isolation & Loneliness

[Scott91LDN]

Hi Everyone,

I am a studying Design and Innovation with the Open University. I am currently working on a project that involves a product to aid independent living for elderly or disabled people. From this design brief I decided to tackle mental health problems however, I felt this was a very broad area to tackle. I decided to narrow it down to Social Isolation & Loneliness. So I want to design a product, service or system that helps or maybe prevents this problem. My project requires me to conduct some research, so I have opted to use forums to gain a greater understanding of this issue. One area I am interested in looking at is the use of technology, in particular how the internet can be used to connect people. I would be extremely grateful for any information or views that anyone has regarding this issue.
Thank you for your time,
Scott

 

[Lon]

I am a single 82 year old independent male and would be pleased to help if you could be a bit more specific.

 

[Scott91LDN]

I am a single 82 year old independent male and would be pleased to help if you could be a bit more specific.

Hi Lon,

I would just like to thank you for your response. I have a few questions that narrow down what sort of information would be helpful.

Do you live close to your family or friends?

How do you keep in contact with them?

Do you have access to the internet?

Do you find using technology easy?

Do you own any mobile devices or computers?

Is enough effort made to make technology accessible to yourself?

If given the chance would you like to socialize more with younger generations?