Context

Large numbers of adults live in relative degrees of social isolation. Many, but not all, are senior citizens, who we define as individuals 65 years of age and over. Some seniors live alone, some with a partner or others. Their limited social ties, often caused by geographic relocation or by the death of family and friends, can lead to isolation. Some seniors are lonely at home, or when hospitalized in rehabilitation facilities for weeks, months, or even years. They may suffer from chronic pain and may have physical or cognitive challenges to mobility or communication. Many perceive themselves as being lonely. Being isolated often results in depression or significant vulnerability

We looked at various different problems for the elderly around us and one main thing which attracted our minds and on which we would like to focus on is the psychological issue faced by them.

• Older adults are at increased risk for loneliness and social isolation because they are more likely to face factors such as living alone, the loss of family or friends, chronic illness, and hearing loss.
• In-home companionship has a huge impact on the mental health of the elderly. Not only do companionship services provide the senior with much-needed interaction, but they also relieve some of the stress and worry from family caregivers. This allows time spent with family to be more fun and carefree, and less of a stressor.
• A helpful and friendly companion has a unique influence on a senior’s quality of life. In many cases, after a few visits from a companion, the senior is much more willing to initiate activities and accomplish tasks independently. 

Some previous methods/devices invented to deal with this problem:

1. Saregama Carvaan

Pros:

1. People over 50-60 years of age are struggling to adapt to new technologies and this was a very good initiative that helped them to listen to the music that they have grown up listening to.

2. It had already built-in songs inside it and so making it easy to use as the user doesn't need to do any external work in downloading or searching the songs.

Cons:

1. High Cost and so difficult to purchase for the middle-class families.

2. Quality degraded with time and the product doesn't last long.

2. Families In Touch  (FIT) Product

Pros:

1. Long-distance connection with their closed ones and friends.

2. Light-weight and very safe to use 

Cons:

1.The voice of family members has not been fully researched and incorporated yet. 

2.No particular method to engage staff without increasing their care burden. 

3.High cost for this technology.