Abstract
Emotions, the sensations that evoke feelings, play a pivotal role in shaping our memories. They serve as the architects, carefully selecting and preserving significant life events in a more enduring manner. Typically, we tend to retain experiences that leave a profound impact on us. However, as we age, cognitive decline sets in, particularly marked by a diminishing memory capacity.
Our present identity is a product of our past experiences, rendering each individual and society unique and irreplaceable. We are essentially the sum of our memories, and the fear of losing one's identity is a profound source of distress. Safeguarding this treasury becomes imperative to ensure that our personal narratives extend beyond our individual lifetimes.
In response to the aging demographic, the VIVEWeb project, developed by the eVIDA research group at the University of Deusto and collaborators, seeks to raise awareness about the significance of seniors' memories. This holds importance not only for the individuals themselves but also for the broader historical fabric of communities. The project addresses the limitations faced by older individuals, who may have limited exposure to technology or health issues hindering its use.
This initiative aims to create a novel social network catering to older adults, enabling them to share their life experiences. Through this digital solution, the aim is for families to socialize with each other. Recognizing the inadequacies of current social networks and websites for this demographic, the project encourages users to document and share their stories with acquaintances, categorizing them into themes such as ""old friends,"" ""memories with grandchildren,"" ""school years,"" or ""local festivals."" The overarching goal is to weave a more intricate web of interconnected memories, fostering awareness among users about the diverse experiences of those who contribute.
To facilitate this, a dedicated website is envisioned, where individuals can share experiences and photographs, connecting with others who have undergone similar life events. This collaborative platform not only serves as a repository for shared memories but also provides an avenue for older adults to gain new insights and details from their peers' experiences. This social network has been tested in a nursing home.
A survey of healthcare professionals and users was conducted. Both are very satisfied with the project. Moreover, 100% of the users believe that this technological tool would increase the quality of life of elderly people who feel lonely. In addition, 92.3% of the social-health personnel believe that this tool would make them more involved in the care and treatment process of the residents.