Peter H.m.p. Roelofsma*, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands Jeana H Frost*, Vrije Universiteit and Kanker.nl, Amsterdam, Netherlands Track: Practice Presentation Topic: Building virtual communities and social networking applications for patients and consumers Presentation Type: Oral presentation Submission Type: Single Presentation Building: LKSC Conference Center Stanford Room: Paul Berg Auditorium Date: 2011-09-17 04:30 PM – 06:00 PM Last modified: 2012-03-05

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This project examines the problem of how to keep the growing population of older people and those with chronic conditions physically and socially active. In this presentation, we present ideas on the possible application of ambient assisted living and e-health to help people live healthier lives. The ideas are developed in the context of city renewal and smart city program, combining end user care organizations, housing companies, the city council, volunteer and non-profit organizations, universities and small and large business enterprises, all with the aim of creating intelligent environments that lead to lifestyle change.

To help people become more physically active and stay socially connected, the project extends available social media and develops new technologies supporting people in their immediate environment with their specific needs. A living lab approach is used to create these technologies. The concepts behind the platform are presented in the context of a holistic approach to support and care. The issue of chronic illness and the corresponding change of the location of investment of future care are discussed and related to the current health trends. Explorative pilot data on the user acceptance and experience of the virtual coach and on the notion of the virtual coach as a friend are discussed, as well as data from an explorative pilot study measuring state loneliness with a one item Likert scale.

(Editorial Note: This is an edited version of the originally submitted & peer-reviewed abstract, last edited 5 Mar 2012)