2022 - Designing for Social Engagement in Later Life: Drifting with uncertainty in co-creation with older Australians ︎
Sheahan, J.
PhD Thesis, RMIT University
Sheahan, J.
PhD Thesis, RMIT University
This dissertation explores the design of social engagement technologies for later life, demonstrating how drifting with uncertainty could support Interaction Designers in co-creating with ageing communities. Situated at the intersection of ageing and technology, this research speaks to two collaborative interdisciplinary projects that interrogate how Interaction Designers can move beyond perpetuating the digital divide and uneven social participation for older adults. Considering how the phenomenon of the digital divide has been magnified for older Australians during the COVID-19 pandemic, this dissertation addresses the lack of understanding around the characteristics and implications of social engagement technologies in later life.