Problem statements & Ideation

Re: 2. Creating a problem statement

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 08:37:33 GMT

by Joanne O'Donnell.

Problem Statement: Loneliness and Social Isolation Among Older People in Swansea

Loneliness and social isolation among older people in Swansea is a challenge that can affect wellbeing, independence and quality of life. Older people may experience reduced opportunities for social interaction because of factors such as bereavement, mobility difficulties, health conditions or limited access to transport and community activities. These barriers can make it harder to maintain meaningful relationships and feel connected to the local community.

Although Swansea has initiatives such as community activities and social groups that aim to reduce loneliness, it is important to understand whether these opportunities are accessible and suitable for all older people. Some individuals may continue to experience barriers that prevent them from participating or benefiting from existing support.

The challenge is therefore to explore the experiences of older people in Swansea, identify gaps in existing opportunities for social connection and investigate how more inclusive and meaningful solutions could be developed. Using a human-centred design-thinking approach would involve older people in identifying the problem and shaping potential solutions based on their own needs and experiences.

Re: 3. HOW MIGHT WE

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 08:35:35 GMT

by Joanne O'Donnell.

1. How might we make existing social activities and community support in Swansea more accessible to older people who experience mobility or transport difficulties?
2. How might we involve older people who experience loneliness in designing meaningful opportunities to build friendships and feel connected to their local community?
3. How might we develop inclusive and affordable ways for older people in Swansea to participate in social activities that reflect their individual interests and needs?

Re: 1. Defining the problem

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 08:33:51 GMT

by Joanne O'Donnell.

1. What is the problem or challenge?

The challenge I have identified is loneliness and social isolation among older people in Swansea. As people age, changes in mobility, retirement, bereavement and health can reduce opportunities for social interaction. Loneliness is not simply about being alone; it can also occur when individuals feel they lack meaningful relationships or a sense of belonging within their community.

My challenge is to investigate the barriers that may prevent older people in Swansea from maintaining meaningful social connections and participating in community life.

2. Why does the problem matter, and who is affected?

Loneliness and social isolation can affect wellbeing, independence and quality of life. The Older People’s Commissioner for Wales (2023) reported that approximately 91,000 older people in Wales experienced consistent loneliness, demonstrating that this is a significant issue across the country.

In Swansea, older people experiencing mobility difficulties, bereavement or limited access to transport and community activities may face additional barriers to maintaining social relationships. This issue is also relevant to families, carers and the wider community because social connection can help people feel valued, supported and included.

3. What is currently missing?

Swansea already has community initiatives aimed at reducing loneliness and supporting older people. For example, Public Health Wales has worked with local partners to develop group activities that encourage older people to build friendships and social networks. The Collaboration Station in Swansea also provides activities intended to promote social connection and participation.

However, the existence of these services does not necessarily mean that all older people can access or benefit from them. Potential barriers, including transport difficulties, mobility, cost or activities that do not reflect individual interests, need to be explored.

Therefore, the gap I want to investigate is whether existing opportunities meet the social needs of older people in Swansea and what could be improved. Understanding their experiences is important because solutions developed without their involvement may not address the barriers they face.

4. What could be a way forward?

A potential way forward is to use human-centred design thinking to explore how more accessible and meaningful opportunities for social connection could be developed in Swansea. This would involve engaging with older people and relevant community organisations to understand their experiences, identify barriers and explore possible solutions collaboratively.

Through the stages of empathising, defining the problem, ideating, prototyping and testing, potential solutions could be developed and evaluated with older people themselves. Rather than assuming what they need, their experiences and ideas would guide the development of any proposed intervention.

This approach would ensure that older people are active participants in the design process rather than simply recipients of support. Ultimately, the aim is to develop a solution informed by lived experience that supports older people to feel more connected, valued and included within the Swansea community.

References

Older People’s Commissioner for Wales (2023) Briefing: Tackling loneliness and isolation in Wales. 12 December. Available at: https://olderpeople.wales/resource/briefing-tackling-loneliness-and-isolation-in-wales-december-2023/ (Accessed: 22 October 2026).