Brands take more active roles in combating the loneliness epidemic
Trend - With self-reported "loneliness" on the rise in wealthy countries around the world, brands are looking to combat this epidemic through everything from studying social eating habits to co-living design concepts. This involvement allows these companies to hone in on niche but widespread consumer interests, as well as provide the desired companionship.
Insight - Social media platforms allow efficient and on-demand communication, however, the absence of face-to-face interaction has steadily increased feelings of alienation among consumers. The growing loneliness epidemic is even reported to create physical health issues, on top of the mental stressors people who feel socially isolated have to deal with. As achieving happiness and healthy companionship are inherently human interests, consumers in the tech age struggle to battle these feelings of alienation through technology and the facilitation of face-to-face interactions.
Insight - Social media platforms allow efficient and on-demand communication, however, the absence of face-to-face interaction has steadily increased feelings of alienation among consumers. The growing loneliness epidemic is even reported to create physical health issues, on top of the mental stressors people who feel socially isolated have to deal with. As achieving happiness and healthy companionship are inherently human interests, consumers in the tech age struggle to battle these feelings of alienation through technology and the facilitation of face-to-face interactions.
Workshop Question - How could your brand work to enhance consumer health?
Trend Themes
1. Anti-loneliness - Brands are taking a more active role in combating loneliness by studying social eating habits and designing co-living concepts.
2. On-demand Companionship Services - New services are emerging to connect senior citizens with companions who can help with tasks, technology, and transportation.
3. Facial Tracking Robotics - Research is being done on the social experience of eating, using robotics such as the 'Arm-A-Dine' to understand the loneliness epidemic.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - Innovations in robotics, apps, and social media continue to shape how we address issues of loneliness.
2. Real Estate - Co-living concepts provide a unique solution to the affordable housing crisis and social isolation among urban residents.
3. Healthcare - As loneliness causes physical as well as mental health issues, there is a growing need for healthcare providers to address social isolation alongside traditional medical treatment.
