How can people live healthy, safe, and socially integrated lives? Four interdisciplinary research teams at OST – University of Applied Sciences of Eastern Switzerland have been working intensively on this question. The projects show that aging is diverse and requires flexible models, new technologies, and communally designed spaces. Initial results demonstrate how targeted research can improve the everyday lives of older people. The 2025 projects were financially supported by an OST funding program that enables innovative approaches to the topic of «Healthy Living and Aging».
Working in Later Life: When Meaningfulness Meets Necessity
In the «AGEWISE» project, researchers investigated why many people continue to work beyond retirement age. The results are surprising: around 60% of respondents continue to work voluntarily – for example, because they find their work meaningful. A quarter, on the other hand, do so out of financial necessity. An age-friendly working environment therefore requires flexible models and targeted measures to combat age discrimination. Based on these findings, a follow-up project is currently being developed that will bring together partners in the field, research institutions, and employer networks.
Digitally Connected: CommunityBot Creates Real Encounters
How can technology help alleviate loneliness in old age? The «CommunityBot» project addressed this question. The interdisciplinary team developed a voice-based prototype that allows older people to record their interests and thus get in touch with like-minded people – across retirement and nursing home boundaries. Feedback from three participating homes shows that there is a great need for an easily accessible digital solution that builds social bridges. Follow-up funding is being planned to further develop CommunityBot into a market-ready application.
More than Beautiful: Green Spaces as a Health Factor
The «HealthyAge Environments» project investigated how outdoor spaces in retirement and nursing homes should be designed to promote health and be climate-friendly. Interviews with care homes show that there is a high level of interest in greening, but that knowledge, resources, or time are often lacking. The researchers found that an online platform alone is not enough. Therefore, mobile test stations and workshops will help to put knowledge directly into practice in the future. The first prototypes for green modules are in the planning stage.
Healthcare for Older Migrants
In the «VIA» project, researchers developed a digital prototype that supports older people with a migration background in accessing the Swiss healthcare system. Language barriers, technical terms, and uncertainty when dealing with doctors' offices often mean that important medical examinations do not take place. This is where VIA comes in: the application documents symptoms and questions in multiple languages, thereby increasing confidence in healthcare services. Strategic partnerships with municipalities and healthcare facilities are now planned for further development.
Social Benefits Through Applied Research
The four projects are a great examples of how OST's practical research helps solve current social challenges while taking older people seriously as active contributors. All the project teams are already working on the next phase: with new partners, more studies, and developing specific applications.