Ulster University

Social exclusion and loneliness have significantly negative impacts on physical and mental health. Such problems are increasingly prevalent in remote and sparsely populated regions of Europe. The lives of older citizens are further complicated by growing health and social care needs. Additionally, older people may be particularly impacted by the wider challenges faced by remote and rural communities, including the interrelated problems of declining economic activity, youth migration and limited access to goods and services. While ICT may help in alleviating these problems, older people may require help with computer and internet use. PLACE-EE is a transnational partnership of public health agencies, local authorities, academics and ICT experts dedicated to improving the quality of life for older people. The key objectives of the PLACE-EE project are as follows:
- Develop a participatory model of engagement with older people in remote and rural areas, using creative arts to assess health and social needs and use of public services.
- Exchange between older and younger citizens.
- Build flourishing social and cultural capital among older people through active involvement in creative and cultural activities. These activities and products will be documented and archived.
- Establish a transnational forum for cultural exchange for older citizens (and young counterparts) across the NPA.
- Document and evaluate a model of transferable, sustainable best practice and learning for connected ageing across all regions in the NPA.
- Disseminate the PLACE-EE Model across NPA regions, health and social care organisations and demonstrate opportunities for ICT services and app development.