Aging well in the era of the metaverse: A research agenda

From metaverse to big data, AI and associated new technologies represent an unprecedented opportunity to transform the experience of aging. While an increasing body of research identifies loneliness as a root cause of distress and poor health among the elderly and recognizes it as a public health concern, metaverse technology is explored here as the foundation for new adjustments to aging strategies, especially to reduce loneliness, promote social relationships and improve well-being among older people. Indeed, the metaverse could offer the elderly a window to the outside world and new ways of gathering with loved ones in an immersive virtual environment. Despite the societal interest in the topic, metaverse has never been studied in the context of promoting aging well. The conditions for the adoption of such radical new technology by older people also remain insufficiently researched. Yet older people are reluctant to accept technological innovations, and their acceptance does not systematically lead to long-term use. This research agenda aims to advance the state of the art by examining whether, why, and under what conditions metaverse technology can be adopted, sustainably used, and either positively or negatively contribute to aging well among the elderly.