Telecare systems support independent living for older adults. However there is a concern that telecare systems may increase social isolation [1]. Telecare systems have been criticised for not addressing the importance of social connections and social activities for older adults [2]. Persuasive influences have been suggested as a possible solution for increasing the effectiveness of telecare systems [3]. Our research is focused on developing a persuasive agent, for encouraging social interaction amongst older adults. During a previous study, we identified six persuasive strategies used by formal carers for older adults in residential care to encourage social interaction [4]. We also developed a profile assessment model (PAM) for determining which strategy to apply [4]. In this paper we describe a validation study, to confirm that the persuasive strategies discovered in [4] are used to encourage social interaction amongst older adults and to validate the PAM.
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