Elderly's Social Presence Supported by ICTs: Investigating User Requirements for Social Presence

Abstract

This paper investigates the user requirements for ICTs to support elderly's social inclusion. We aim to illustrate the potential of social presence for fostering elderly's social interaction. Therefore, we present results of requirements analyses and define implications for the design of ICTs enabling social presence. Social presence is important, as it supports gaining a feeling of belonging to somebody. The more elderly get involved in a common activity, and get aware of the emotions, attitudes or thoughts of another person, the more they will experience social presence, which in turn has a positive effect on social interaction. Due to the extremely heterogeneous target group in terms of technology affinity and acceptance as well as individual needs, it is time to reconsider current ICTs on their potential for designing new social interactions for elderly in order to achieve positive user experiences regarding social presence.