Innovative research from the Queensland University of Technology emphasizes the urgent need to create safer online environments tailored for older adults. Led by PhD researcher Yasamin Asadi, the study highlights the importance of emotional safety, trust, and trauma-informed practices in fostering meaningful online communities for older Australians.
The findings were presented at the 2025 Australian Conference on Human-Computer Interaction (OZCHI) and are based on an extensive three-month investigation into online social clubs managed by the not-for-profit organization Inclusee. Through interviews and observations of both participants and facilitators, the research underscores that mere access to digital platforms is insufficient for this demographic.
Older adults often carry a lifetime of experiences, including grief, trauma, and social exclusion, all of which influence their interactions with digital spaces. Ms. Asadi stated, “It’s about creating emotionally safe environments where they feel seen, supported, and able to participate on their own terms.” This perspective shifts the focus from mere digital inclusion to a more holistic approach that prioritizes emotional and psychological well-being.
Facilitators as Key Support Figures
The research revealed that facilitators play a critical role in maintaining engagement within these online communities. Acting as a “bridge between technology and trust,” these individuals employ trauma-informed practices to provide discreet emotional support, make thoughtful content choices, and remain sensitive to group dynamics. This approach is essential in environments where hobbies and conversations can prompt both joy and painful memories for participants.
Many individuals reported experiencing a renewed sense of purpose and the formation of friendships through their involvement in these online clubs. Some participants even noted a significant increase in their confidence with technology. One participant shared that joining a theatre club rekindled a long-abandoned dream, illustrating the profound impact these digital spaces can have on personal growth and healing.
Ms. Asadi remarked, “These digital spaces became more than just social platforms; they became places of growth and healing. We need to design with care, not just convenience.” This call to action stresses the necessity of intentional design in creating online environments that cater to the unique needs of older individuals.
The research not only sheds light on the challenges faced by older adults in digital spaces but also advocates for a transformative approach to online community building. By prioritizing emotional safety and trust, it aims to enhance the overall experience for older Australians, helping them to better navigate the digital landscape.
As digital connectivity continues to shape social interactions, the insights from this study are pivotal in informing future initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive and supportive online environments for older adults.
