Social networks of care and support are fundamental to health and wellbeing, particularly as 
people age and become increasingly dependent on others for support. With increasing rates of migration and mobility there is a higher probability of the dispersal of family and support 
networks. Communication technologies have a crucial role in maintaining these support 
networks. A new concept, ‘digital kinning’, helps draw attention to the processes of 
using new technologies to facilitate the social connection and supports social and cultural identities of 
older people across distance. 

 

In this seminar, case study examples illustrate the key dimensions and benefits of ‘digital kinning’ for older migrants in home and residential care.