Challenge 3: Social Interaction & Wellbeing

For many older adults, social networks gradually shrink. Mobility may become limited. Family members may live far away. Digital tools exist, but many are not designed with embodied presence, emotional nuance, or sustained engagement in mind.

AI and XR technologies offer new ways of thinking about connection. Beyond video calls or messaging, immersive systems can create shared spaces, guided conversations, socially engaging environments, and interactive experiences that feel more participatory.

This track invites you to design systems that support the social-emotional wellbeing of older adults, not by replacing human relationships, but by thoughtfully augmenting connection, agency, and meaningful interaction.

Your solution may OPTIONALLY explore:

• Shared immersive environments for conversation, storytelling, or other social activities
• AI-facilitated intergenerational dialogue
• Socially interactive and engaging interface for targeted demographic
• Structured emotional check-ins within immersive contexts
• Hybrid physical-digital interaction models

When designing, consider:

• Simplicity and accessibility for older users
• Comfort with technology and device usability
• The balance between AI companionship and real human connection
• Privacy and emotional data sensitivity

What kind of connection is being enabled?

What is your balance of immersive experience and real-life accessibility for the demographic?

How does AI contribute meaningfully (facilitator, guide, memory interpreter, etc.)?

How does the system avoid dependency or over-automation?

A prototype, immersive environment, or interactive demonstration that illustrates a distinct creative vision and meaningful AI × XR integration

Clear articulation of design intentions and effective demonstration of user interaction (via a 2-3 minute video and pitch deck)