How ClarkLindsey Is Participating in New Research on Simplifying Video Connections for Older Adults
- ClarkLindsey
- May 20, 2020
- 2 min read
A new research project led by University of Illinois faculty is exploring how simplified video‑chat technology can support social connection for older adults. As part of this study, ClarkLindsey will collaborate with researchers and partner organizations to evaluate how easy‑to‑use communication tools may reduce loneliness and improve engagement, especially during periods of increased isolation.
What Happened
Researchers at the University of Illinois are studying a new communication platform designed to make video chat more accessible for older adults. The tool, called OneClick, connects users to virtual gatherings without requiring downloads, logins, or complex setup—barriers that often prevent older adults from participating in traditional video‑conference platforms.
The research team, led by Professor Wendy Rogers and Professor Raksha Mudar, first conducted a small pilot program with adults who had varying levels of cognitive ability. This early study assessed ease of use, comfort with the tool, and the types of activities people hoped to do together once connected.
Now the project is expanding into a larger clinical trial involving 120 older adults over a six‑month period. Participants will use OneClick for social and recreational activities, while researchers track engagement, enjoyment, and whether the platform reduces feelings of isolation.
As part of this next phase, ClarkLindsey will work alongside other aging‑services organizations to explore how OneClick can support resident programs and community services.
Why This Matters
Social connection has a well‑established link to emotional, cognitive, and physical well‑being. During the COVID‑19 pandemic and other times of reduced in‑person interaction, older adults faced added risks of isolation. Technology offers a potential solution, but only when designed with accessibility in mind.
This research matters because:
Many older adults encounter usability barriers in mainstream video‑chat platforms.
Tools like OneClick could help bridge gaps for individuals who have limited comfort with technology.
Organizations such as ClarkLindsey can use research‑based insights to strengthen engagement opportunities across their communities.
Ultimately, the project aims to understand whether simplifying technology can make meaningful social connection easier and more sustainable.
Key Details at a Glance
OneClick is a simplified, web‑based video‑chat platform requiring no downloads or logins.
Initial pilot testing showed older adults could use the tool independently at home.
The expanded study will follow 120 participants for six months, including individuals with mild cognitive impairment.
ClarkLindsey is collaborating with the research team as part of the next phase.
The study is funded through a National Institutes of Health Small Business Innovation Research grant.
Broader Context
As senior living communities continue adopting technology to support social, educational, and health‑related programming, ease of use remains a central concern. Research efforts like this one help identify solutions that remove barriers rather than add new ones. By participating in the project, ClarkLindsey contributes to a growing body of knowledge about how digital tools can support independence, connection, and quality of life for older adults.
This work also aligns with national trends emphasizing age‑inclusive design—an approach that recognizes that technology should adapt to users, not the other way around.
Source Attribution
This post is based on publicly reported information originally covered by The News‑Gazette.
