Track B – Social Interaction

Responsible

Gerda Geyer

The focus of this track will be on projects funded under the second Call in the AAL JP on Social Interaction and other thematically related projects on the European and national levels. The aim of the track is to bring the projects together, discuss relevant research findings and the solutions which could be developed from them, exchange experiences regarding success factors and problems and to learn from each other. Specific sessions on business opportunities and ethical issues as well as issues regarding end-user involvement will be organised.

General aspects to be included in the Track B are:

AAL projects that produce solutions which are adaptable over the life course to benefit people as they grow older. The track will also address foresight issues since the lives of older persons will be subject to change, as society is subject to continual change. What should AAL be considering in this respect e.g. the needs of those in rural areas compared to cities might change  in the future?

Social connectivity is about the subjective awareness of being in close interpersonal, meaningful and positive social relationships and contexts. It is affected by the quality,  frequency, diversity and reciprocity of contacts as well as the possibilities and opportunities for establishing them.

Older persons are no different from any other demographic group and want to perform meaningful activities, to have fun and to experience satisfaction when learning new things. Many older persons have valuable resources (e.g. life experience, creative skills), and can significantly contribute to the society. These resources could be used to support others to stay socially active and to promote intergenerational relationships. Research has shown that, when embedded in active social networks, people tend to enjoy better physical and mental health.