No abstract

A growing body of research is examining the way that virtual reality (VR) technology might enrich the lives of older adults. However, no studies have yet examined how this technology-combining head mounted displays, motion tracking, avatars, and virtual environments-might contribute to older adult wellbeing by facilitating greater social participation (social VR). To address this gap, we conducted three workshops in which 25 older adults aged 70 to 81 explored the utility of social VR as a medium for communicating with other older adults. Participants first created embodied avatars that were controlled through natural gestures, and subsequently used these avatars in two high-fidelity social VR prototypes. Findings from the workshops provide insight into older adults' design motivations when creating embodied avatars for social VR; their acceptance of social VR as a communication tool; and their views on how social VR might play a beneficial role in their lives. Outcomes from the workshops also illustrate the critical importance our participants placed on behavioural anthropomorphism-the embodied avatars' ability to speak, move, and act in a human-like manner-alongside translational factors, which encapsulate issues relating to the way physical movements are mapped to the embodied avatar and the way in which errors in these mappings may invoke ageing stereotypes. Findings demonstrate the critical role that these characteristics might play in the success of future social VR applications targeting older users. We translate our findings into a set of design considerations for developing social VR systems for older adults, and we reflect on how our participants' experiences can inform future research on social virtual reality. CCS Concepts: • Human-centered computing → Virtual reality; Collaborative and social computing; Empirical studies in collaborative and social computing.

Results suggest a need for studies that examine new and innovative forms of technology, evaluated with rigorous methodologies, and drawing on clear definitions about how these technologies address social isolation/participation.

Australia has one of the most diverse migrant populations in the world. This pattern of cultural diversity is also reflected in the older population, with increasing numbers of older people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. The aim of the present review is to examine the evidence base related to the health and social needs and existing support systems for older Australians from CALD backgrounds. It is difficult to generalise the issues and challenges associated with these groups because of their heterogeneity, both between and within groups. However, their health and social needs may be particularly acute as a result of cultural and language barriers; their geographical location and the circumstances of migration, which impact on their financial circumstances as well as psycho-social health. Whilst there is a range of community and government stakeholders involved in addressing these issues, the evidence base for policy and practice is not well understood.

This paper presents a review of the available literature on the relationship between volunteering and health among older people. There is consistent evidence that morbidity rates, functional health indices, self reported health and life satisfaction are affected by formal and informal volunteering. Some studies suggest that the benefits of volunteering are reciprocal, in that both those who give and those who receive assistance benefit. The evidence is consistent with the proposal that social capital is generated through volunteering. It is likely that the presence of high levels of social capital supports and maintains the health of older persons, provides informal support in times of sickness and stress and thus enhances quality of life as well as reducing or delaying the onset of illness and death.