PortoPilot – Digital Technologies to Decrease Loneliness/Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS

Developed in Porto, the PortoPilot – Digital technologies to decrease loneliness project has successfully tackled elderly loneliness through tailored digital technologies. Seniors were equipped with smartphones and trained in communication and entertainment applications, revealing a surprising preference for cognitive stimulation games. This challenges stereotypes about seniors’ reluctance to engage with digital solutions, highlighting their enthusiasm for technology adoption. Crucially, caregiver participation exceeded expectations, ensuring the sustainability of activities beyond the project’s duration. The project not only emphasises technology’s potential to enhance seniors’ well-being but also underscores the significance of caregiver collaboration for long-term success. As PortoPilot continues, it remains dedicated to evolving solutions that address the evolving needs of elderly individuals, further solidifying its role in alleviating loneliness in this demographic. The initiative stands as a beacon of innovation, showcasing the transformative power of technology when coupled with genuine understanding and collaboration to improve the lives of the elderly in Porto.