Is Silver Surfing the Solution for Social Isolation?

This expert panel debate brings together a range of leading researchers, practitioners and industry professionals to discuss how digital and social media can tackle loneliness and social isolation amongst people over the age of 65. The discussion will explore the findings of a project, supported by the Digital R&D Fund for the Arts – Nesta, Arts and Humanities Research Council and public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, that has developed new routes for cultural organisations to offer discounts and benefits to older people in a way that builds social networks.

The research, led by DigiLab at London College of Communication, looks at audiences from three urban and rural areas – artsdepot in London, Warwick Arts Centre and the Brewery Arts Centre in Cumbria to explore how older people’s relationship with technology can help us understand them better as an arts’ audience.

The combination of experts from leading charities, cultural institutions and researchers including AgeUK, Tate and London College of Communication, will provide a rich debate.

Panel:
Amanda Windle, DigiLab Fellow, London College of Communication
Tim Burley, Development Director, artsdepot
Marcus Green, Research Manager, AgeUK
Michelle Fuirer, Artist and Specialist in Learning – Public Programmes, Tate Modern and Tate Britain

The debate is followed by an informal drinks reception.

Image: courtesy of the London College of Communication