Using a participatory research approach, this subproject of the Collaborative Research Center “Media of Cooperation” works together with older adults and other stakeholders in the social environment to investigate and design socio-technical infrastructures aimed at strengthening the autonomy and social participation of older adults. The subproject is thus developing a conceptual refinement of the practice-theory-based design concepts “Design Case Studies” and “Infrastructuring” for innovative, participatory modes of co-production of technologies for aging.

The second funding phase addresses the IT-supported co-production of social participation for older adults in complex care situations, based on an expanded understanding of care and caring in Caring Communities.

Regarding the co-production of socio-technical infrastructures in caring communities, the following is being investigated:

• How care for people in complex life situations can be successfully provided under an expanded concept of care,
• How care providers, care technology, and care discourses mutually co-create one another both locally and across regions, and
• How supportive infrastructures for empowerment and participation can be co-produced in these contexts.