Co-design and loneliness

Background

Addressing loneliness is a public health priority. People who are often lonely are more likely to develop a range of physical and mental health disorders, including heart disease, dementia and depression. Loneliness can also make people’s existing health conditions worse. Certain groups are particularly at risk of loneliness due to health conditions or caring responsibilities.

Intended outcomes

Dr Grey and her team will work with three groups at greater risk of loneliness but who could benefit from technological innovations:

• Neurodivergent teenagers and young adults
• People with Parkinson’s or dementia
• Informal carers of people with Parkinson’s or dementia

They will co-design technology solutions to help them feel more socially connected. Workshops will identify their specific needs; look at potential ways technology could address these needs; and develop prototype solutions.

This work will provide important evidence on the technology needs of these under-served yet high-risk groups and deliver early-stage solutions for development in future. Dr Grey’s team will share their findings with organisations supporting these groups and with academic and industry communities.

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