Why does IT support enjoyment of elderly life?: case studies performed in Japan

In order to support elderly people to remain activate in communicating with their families and friends, we are developing always-on communications systems that are based on the exchange of indirect information, the videophone, and touch panel displays. Two field experiments were conducted with elderly people in Japan. One of the experiments was conducted between families members, while the other was performed between elderly people and social workers. The results show that IT can support the enjoyment of elderly life.