This report provides an overview of findings from workshops and focus groups that elicited the perspectives of older adults and support services on the use of everyday technologies for identifying and supporting people experiencing loneliness. These findings were discussed at a symposium on ‘Inclusive Dialogue about Sensing Technologies for Loneliness’ held at University College Cork (UCC) in June 2024.
Key findings include:
• Older adults emphasised the need for simple, affordable devices, ongoing training, and personalised support in using the devices.
• Concerns about privacy, data management, and complex consent processes were prominent.
• Participants noted stigma around expressing loneliness and highlighted the importance of user-friendly designs informed by older adults’ perspectives.
• The project stressed engaging older adults in technology design to ensure accessibility and effectiveness.
Recommendations focus on integrating sensing technologies with human-led support, safeguarding privacy, and actively involving older adults in research and innovation efforts.”