Instead of causing isolation, research reveals that technological innovation can actually stop you from feeling lonely.
There’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that technology is an inescapable aspect of our daily lives.
We wield our smartphones to communicate with others, and organise the logistics of life administration.
From ordering food to online banking, from sharing special moments to stalking celebrities on Instagram, our phones keep us connected in the digital space.
However, the general consensus appears to be that as technology grows, our humanity diminishes.
Reality is almost virtual now that we can access information and liaise with others remotely. In fact, studies show that more and more people are actually becoming addicted to their smartphones.
In a world where proximity is no longer fundamental to bonding with others, smart devices are becoming the windows to the soul.
However, a recent report serves as a game-changer to the belief that technology causes isolation.
Stop feeling lonely and start being connected
Called ‘Social isolation and loneliness in the UK’, it claims that tech could help social separation. Catapult Future Cities, an organisation dedicated to driving smart cities, created the assessment.
The report points out that loneliness has a negative impact on overall health. It cites that 60% of people in isolation are more likely to visit emergency wards than those with a partner.
Furthermore, it outlines how isolation can burden the body in the same way as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Consequently, the grave impacts of a socially barren life is straining services provided by the NHS.
Yet, the report shines a reassuring light. It discusses the positive effects that technology has on alleviating the consequences of little to no human interaction.
It explains that interventions such as Internet access, video calls, and classes in computer literacy have succeeded in lowering social isolation, especially for the elderly.
According to Matthew Skinner of Future Gov:
“New technology is helping us to design digital public services that meet users’ needs, provide a better experience and cost less.
“Digital services […] are helping to shift the balance of power back to local communities, providing them with light weight digital tools to connect and help each other.”
Did you enjoy, “Lonely? Study proves tech could improve your life”?
Read more:
Only child syndrome: Only children are more successful than those with siblings
https://live-newstatesman-b2b.pantheonsite.io/digital-age-love-humans-not-monogamous/