“Online Gameable Communities”: Social Digital Games in the Infocommunication Ageing Society

Abstract

Technological ubiquity has brought countless paradigmatic changes – e.g. the rise of the network society; new forms of entertainment, socializing, and learning; and a digital divide that is still limiting the access and use for a large part of the population. Concurrently, an increasing ageing of the population has been witnessed, bringing additional challenges when developing digital platforms suitable for this audience. Considerable research has studied the impact that digital platforms, such as online communities and digital games, may have on promoting an active and healthy ageing. However, little is known regarding the combined interaction of these two media within the ageing citizen context. This research, in light of the paradigms of complexity and informationalism, epistemologically and antagonistically analyzes the relationship between the older adults, online communities, and digital games. As a result of this disruptive thinking, a new transdisciplinary term emerges – online gameable communities. In conclusion, it is believed that this new medium will allow a greater involvement of older adults with technology, while fostering socialization, technological learning, well-being, and an active and healthy ageing.