Designing for Inclusive Experiences: Investigating Opportunities for Supporting Older Adults in Community-based Social Programs

Abstract

Community-based social programs, such as interest groups and outings, provide valuable ways for older adults to maintain social connectedness. To understand how technology can be designed to support older adults in such programs, we conducted a four-month feld study with a local community centre, involving: (1) observations of social program sessions, (2) interviews with staf, and (3) co-design workshops with staf and program participants. We found that staf used technologies in a situated way to make social programs more inclusive for older adults. Technology promoted incidental social interactions and group learning, but also excluded participants from some activities. Participants believe..