Sue Thomson
Papers
2
Total Citations
24
H-Index
2
About
Sue Thomson’s research reimagines technology’s role in later life, shifting the focus from deficit-based narratives of ageing toward creativity, curiosity, and empowerment. Her work sits at the intersection of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), digital health, and critical ageing studies, challenging assumptions that older adults are merely passive technology users. In her highly cited paper, *“Isn’t this Marvelous”* (2022, 16 citations), Thomson argues for a “positive ageing” framework that foregrounds older adults’ resourcefulness and joy—a departure from the typical emphasis on mobility or health outcomes. She demonstrates that technology can be a canvas for wonder, not just a tool for care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Thomson pioneered “troubleshooting as a method” (*Troubleshooting as a method in COVID-19 times*, 2022, 8 citations), blending smart home ethnography with remote aged care innovation. This adaptable, ethical approach allowed her team to co-design solutions with older adults living with chronic conditions, revealing how small, collaborative fixes can yield profound improvements in daily life. Thomson’s contributions are reshaping how we design for—and with—ageing populations, making her a vital voice in inclusive technology research.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1“Isn't this Marvelous”16 citations · 2022
- 2