“Working it out”: Exploring how digital technologies could support healthy ageing at work

HCI researchers have long explored how digital technologies can support wellbeing at work. However, despite increased ageing demographics globally, there are few examples and little discussion on how technologies can support the complex health experiences that occur as people age at work. To contribute to such discussions, we involved 45/29 participants aged 50-66 in a two-phase co-design process of a wellbeing mobile application, which leveraged insights into their needs and perceptions towards emerging technologies. Through an exploratory phase, we identified the need to promote self-reflection and awareness of health issues holistically, which could inform adjustments and health communication at work. Through reviewing a probe app, we were able to highlight key design implications, including the need for technologies to help build self-understanding rather than health optimisation; the ways in which qualitative engagements with data could support self-discovery; and the need to base designs on identified workplace communication approaches.