Catalyzing social interaction with ubiquitous computing

Abstract

This paper describes design directions for ubiquitous computing to facilitate social interaction. The study focuses on elders coping with cognitive decline and their caregivers, but it is expected that the concepts will have much broader applicability. Social needs and barriers were examined in a qualitative study of 45 households across the U.S. Directions for ubiquitous computing concepts are outlined to address these social needs and barriers. Two example concepts, an ambient display to facilitate joint activity and a social memory aid, are described in detail. An underlying principal of these design directions and concepts is the use of computing technologies as catalysts rather than substitutes for human relationships. These concepts are part of an integrated system of home health technologies under development in a multiyear "aging in place" study.