Co-producing mindful tactile technologies for healthy ageing: Cross-cultural insights from India and the UK

Healthy ageing and well-being are deeply connected to our sensory experiences, which shape how we interact with the world. As sensory decline is a natural aspect of ageing, it opens opportunities for designing digital technologies that enhance the quality of life. Our objective is to explore how mindful tactile technologies can support healthy ageing by addressing sensory decline in older adults, with a particular focus on cross-cultural insights and user-led design approaches.

We conducted four co-production workshops: two in India and two in the UK, bringing together older adult attendees from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. These workshops used participatory design methods to gather perspectives on sensory challenges, and emotional well-being and envisioned future technologies related to touch and mindfulness.

Our findings revealed strong connections between sensory experiences, mindfulness, and well-being, as well as distinct cultural differences in how these are experienced and valued. Indian attendees emphasised collective well-being and spiritual practices, while UK attendees focused more on personal autonomy and self-care. These insights informed four key design implications for developing tactile technologies that are culturally adaptive and age-inclusive.

Our work highlights the potential of co-produced, sensory-based digital technologies to enhance the quality of life in older adults. By grounding design in cultural values and lived sensory experiences, our work lays the foundation for future digital health interventions that are both meaningful and inclusive across global ageing populations.