Social networking may prove key to overcoming isolation of older adults

The University of Sydney is leading an investigation into the use of online social networking tools and other information technologies by older Australians as a means of combating social isolation and increasing community engagement of seniors. "Advances in medical and assistive technologies, along with developments that assist older adults to age-in-place in their own home imply that not just poor health but also social isolation are challenges that need to be addressed for overall healthy ageing," says Professor Robert Steele , the project leader and Chair of Health Informatics. "With the proportion of people aged over 65 predicted to double over the next 40 years, it's essential that we examine ways we can support and enable older adults to live 'interdependently'." The multi-disciplinary research team, drawn from across the disciplines of health informatics, ageing, community health and occupational therapy, believe that information technologies may facilitate new modes of social interaction. The study will ascertain current levels of technology usage of seniors and baby boomers before giving participants an introduction to social networking technologies including Facebook, Instant Messaging, Skype and Twitter. It will also include up-skilling in common technological devices such as mobile phones and MP3 players. Focus groups, diaries and other qualitative methods, including data generated by social networking will then be used to document and analyse the experience of participants.