DR. HANNAH R. MARSTON

Summary

A versatile and creative researcher with an international background, who has multidisciplinary experience, with a track record of publications within health and well-being, gerontology, digital technologies, and video games, who is organized, a planner, and a listener with additional expertise in writing, presentations, leadership, and collaboration.

Hannah enjoys collaborating with colleagues on topics focusing on ICT use/behaviour to enhance the lives of people and welcomes new collaborations.

You will be able to find a great deal of information throughout this website, in addition to one of Hannah’s passions which is photography. She has uploaded a variety of photographs and can be found through the Gallery.

Latest News

#COVID19 Studies, & Writings

#COVID19 is a worldwide pandemic and crises for all governments and citizens. Technology will and is playing an important role within our respective communities to maintain work, communication, sharing information and more importantly reduce isolation and loneliness for all!

Marston, H.R., & van Hoof, J. (2021). Age-friendly cities and communities of the 21st Century. Ageing Issues Blog, 9th February 2021.
Marston, H.R., & Morgan, D.J. (2021). Happy New Year, 3rd Wave, Lockdown 3.0 & Easter. Ageing Issues Blog, 22nd January 2021
Marston, H.R., & Morgan, D.J. (2020). Lockdown 2.0: Gunpowder Plot, Digital Christmas, Sex and Relationships. Ageing Issues Blog, 2nd November 2020.
Marston, H.R., & Morgan, D.J. (2020). Technology & Social Media during COVID-19 Pandemic. Special Issue: COVID-19 & Geriatric Mental Health Worldwide. IPA Bulletin; 37(2). Available from https://www.ipa-online.org/publications/ipa-bulletin/featured-articles/covid-19-bulletin-articles/technology-social-media-during-covid19
Marston, H.R., & Kowert, R. (2020). What role can videogames play in the COVID-19 pandemic? Emerald Open Res. 2:34. https://doi.org/10.35241/emeraldopenres.13727.1
Sheerman, L., Marston, H.R., Musselwhite, C., & Morgan, D. (2020). COVID-19 and the secret virtual assistants: the social weapons for a state of emergency [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]. Emerald Open Res, 2:19. https://doi.org/10.35241/emeraldopenres.13571.1
White, P.J., Marston, H.R., Shore, L., & Turner, R. (2020). Learning from COVID-19: Design, Age-friendly Technology, Hacking and Mental Models [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]. Emerald Open Res, 2:21. https://doi.org/10.35241/emeraldopenres.13599.1
Marston, H.R., Musselwhite, C., & Hadley, R.A. (2020). COVID-19 vs Social Isolation: the Impact Technology can have on Communities, Social Connections and Citizens. Ageing Issues, 18th March, 2020. The British Society of Gerontology.

#COVID-19 Study 1

COVID-19: TECHNOLOGY, SOCIAL CONNECTIONS, LONELINESS & LEISURE ACTIVITIES
This study led by Dr Hannah R. Marston and Dr Sarah Earle, and will use an online survey, deployed across mailing lists, and social media platforms to reach as many people as possible. The online survey comprising of 65 questions relating to technology use, community engagement, health and wellbeing, loneliness and leisure activities.

Since April 2020, this study has been scaled up and the online survey has been deployed across Spain, France, Romania, Germany, Austria, Turkey, Malta, Singapore, India, Portugal, and Brazil. For more information click here.

Ethics: HREC/3551/MARSTON

Funding: this project is not externally funded.

Publications:

Marston, H.R., Ivan, L., Fernández-Ardèvol, M., Rosales Climent, A., Gómez-León, M., Blanche, D., Earle, S., Ko, P.C., Colas, S., Bilir, B., Öztürk Çalıkoğl., Arslan, H., Kanozia, R., Kriebernegg, U., Großschädl, F., Reer, F., Quandt, T., Buttigieg, S.C., Alexandra Silva, P., Gallistl, V., & Rohner, R. (2020). COVID-19: Technology, Social Connections, Loneliness & Leisure Activities: An International Study Protocol. Front. Sociol. doi:10.3389/fsoc.2020.574811
Marston, H.R., et al., (2020) – Research Evidence#1 LBCO224 – Life beyond COVID. Submitted 30th August, published 18^th September 2020, COVID-19 Committee. Written evidence (page 11). All evidence is available here.

#COVID-19 Study 2

#COVID-19: Dating Apps, Social Connections, Loneliness & Mental Health

This study is led by Dr Hannah R. Marston, with Co-I’s Dr Sarah Earle (OU), Dr D.J. Morgan, (Swansea University), Dr David M. Lee (MMU) and Dr Robin Hadley.

The purpose of this study is to explore and understand how dating apps have been used by citizens during the pandemic to connect with others on a social, emotional and sexual level, to reduce the feeling of loneliness and social isolation.

We are still recruiting participants. If you are interested please go to the project website

Project website here

Latest Publications

Marston, H.R., et al., (2020) – Research Evidence#1 LBCO224 – Life beyond COVID. 18^th September 2020, COVID-19 Committee. Written evidence (page 11)
Morgan, D.J., Marston, H.R., & Hadley, R. (2020) – Research Evidence#2 LBCO135 – Life beyond COVID. 18^th September 2020, COVID-19 Committee. Written evidence (page 15)
Marston, H.R., Wilson, G., Morgan, D.J., & Gates, J. (2020) – Research Evidence#3 LOL0017 – Living online: the long-term impact on wellbeing. 15^th December 2020, COVID-19 Committee. Written evidence (page 6)

Marston, H.R., Niles-Yokum, K., & Silva, P.A. (2021). A Commentary on Blue Zones^®: A Critical Review of Age-Friendly Environments in the 21st Century and Beyond. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, 18, 837. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18020837
Marston, H.R., Shore, L., & White, P. (2020). How does a (Smart) Age-Friendly Ecosystem Look in a Post-Pandemic Society? Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, 17, 8276. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17218276
Marston, H.R., & Morgan, D.J. (2020). Lockdown 2.0: Gunpowder Plot, Digital Christmas, Sex and Relationships. Ageing Issues Blog, 2nd November 2020. Available from https://ageingissues.wordpress.com/2020/11/02/lockdown-2-0-gunpowder-plot-digital-christmas-sex-and-relationships/
Marston, H.R., Ivan, L., Fernández-Ardèvol, M., Rosales Climent, A., Gómez-León, M., Blanche, D., Earle, S., Ko, P.C., Colas, S., Bilir, B., Öztürk Çalıkoğl., Arslan, H., Kanozia, R., Kriebernegg, U., Großschädl, F., Reer, F., Quandt, T., Buttigieg, S.C., Alexandra Silva, P., Gallistl, V., & Rohner, R. (Accepted/In press). COVID-19: Technology, Social Connections, Loneliness & Leisure Activities: An International Study Protocol. Front. Sociol. doi:10.3389/fsoc.2020.574811
Freeman, S.; Marston, H.R.; Olynick, J.; Musselwhite, C.; Kulczycki, C.; Genoe, R.; Xiong, B. (2020). Intergenerational Effects on the Impacts of Technology Use in Later Life: Insights from an International, Multi-Site Study. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, 17, 5711. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17165711
Marston, H.R., Niles-Yokum, K., Earle, S., Gomez, B., & Lee, D. (2020). OK Cupid, Stop Bumbling around and March Me Tinder Using Dating Apps Across the Life Course. Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1177/2333721420947498
Marston, H.R., & Morgan, D.J. (2020) Technology & Social Media during COVID-19 Pandemic. Special Issue: COVID-19 & Geriatric Mental Health Worldwide. IPA Bulletin; 3(2). Available from https://www.ipa-online.org/publications/ipa-bulletin/featured-articles/covid-19-bulletin-articles/technology-social-media-during-covid19
Marston, H.R., & Kowert, R. (2020). What role can videogames play in the COVID-19 pandemic? [version 2; peer review: 2 approved]. Emerald Open Res, 2:34 (https://doi.org/10.35241/emeraldopenres.13727.2)
White, P.J., Marston, H.R., Shore, L., and Turner, R. (2020). Learning from COVID-19: Design, Age-friendly Technology, Hacking and Mental Models [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]. Emerald Open Res, 2:21 https://doi.org/10.35241/emeraldopenres.13599.1
Sheerman, L, Marston, H.R., Musselwhite, C., & Morgan, D. (2020). COVID-19 and the secret virtual assistants: the social weapons for a state of emergency [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]. Emerald Open Res, 2:19 https://doi.org/10.35241/emeraldopenres.13571.1
Marston, H.R., Musselwhite, C., & Hadley, R.A. (2020). COVID-19 vs Social Isolation: the Impact Technology can have on Communities, Social Connections and Citizens. Ageing Issues, 18th March, 2020. The British Society of Gerontology.
First study to assess technology use during COVID-19. (2020). Open University, 11th May 2020.

Special Issues

Special Issue #1 – “Feature Papers “Age-Friendly Cities & Communities: State of the Art and Future Perspectives””

For a full list and access to existing published papers in this special issue can be found here.

van Hoof, J., & Marston, H.R. (2021). Age-Friendly Cities and Communities: State of the Art and Future Perspectives. Editorial. IJERP; 18(4), 1644, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041644.

Marston, H.R., & van Hoof, J. (2021). Age-friendly cities and communities of the 21st Century. Ageing Issues Blog, 9th February 2021.

Impact factor: 2.468

The number of older adults is increasing rapidly, and this demographic shift places an increased level of strain and tension on the various international healthcare and welfare systems. The vast majority of older adults wish to age in place, and many make use of long-term care services, including home care, rehabilitation services, and social support, as well as home modifications and technology. One way to support older people to live the life they wish to live is through the Age-Friendly Cities and Communities initiative, a world-wide programme launched in 2007 by the World Health Organization to make cities more tuned to the needs and requirements of older citizens.

The primary focus of this Feature Paper Special Issue is to critically assess the state of the art in Age-Friendly Cities and Communities programme. Focusing on how much the programme has impacted on cities, while embracing its foundations, and what are the benefits of consortium member cities? Which gaps can be identified in the model and how should these gaps be addressed? Evaluations of local initiatives are needed in order to move the Age-Friendly Cities and Communities initiative and debate forward. The purpose of this Feature Paper Special Issue is to publish high-quality research papers including position papers and review articles addressing recent advances in age-friendly cities. There are eight domains of an age-friendly city, specifically Social participation; Communication and information; Civic participation and employment; Housing; Transportation; Community support and health services; Outdoor spaces and buildings; Respect and social inclusion.

Special issue #2 – The Aging and Technology Special Collection

I would like to draw your attention to the forthcoming special collection Aging and Technology in the journal of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine. The deadline is now closed.

Overview
For the aging population, technology is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, the rapid pace of development and change can make it difficult for older adults to learn new technologies, while the world’s increasing use of and dependence on smart devices and digital technologies leaves those who struggle to adapt at a distinct, isolated disadvantage. On the other hand, technologies geared specifically towards an increasing, aging population contribute to increased comfort and dignity, the ability to live at home for longer, ease with managing health issues, and even longer life. This collection examines both aspects of the topic, welcoming manuscripts that address technologies designed for older adults (gerotechnology) as well as older adults’ relationship and struggles with advancing technologies. Both clinical and behavioral approaches will be considered.

Previous Activities

PAX Online: Game and Interaction Design for Older Adults: That Means You (Someday) 14th September 2020

Moderator: Michelle Gaudette-Long,

Panel Members: Ahmad Azadvar, Robin Koman, Dr. Hannah Marston, Sheri Graner Ray, Dr. Bob De Schutter

The iGAME (intergenerational: Gaming, Accessibility, Motivation, Engagement) Special Issue is now available.

This SI was led by Hannah and her co-guest editor Ahmad Azadar (User Research project manager at Massive Entertainment (Ubisoft), Sweden. This will be published early 2020. focused on contemporary research and future insights.

In May 2019, Hannah was invited to speak with game designers and developers at Massive Entertainment, Sweden. Her presentation: ‘From Arcade to World Wide Web – how intergenerational gaming can help you pick up an extra life’ focused on contemporary research and future insights.

Mobile e-Health - Book Cover — Mobile e-Health

During her graduate studies and beyond, Hannah has built up a wide national and international network, across a variety of disciplines and she actively publishes her work, in journals and book chapters. She recently led on the Edited book – Mobile e-Health with Drs. Freeman and Musselwhite.

Knowledge Exchange
Seminar Series (KESS)

Hannah has led several projects, including the Technology In Later Life (TILL) project (2015-17), where she presented some preliminary findings under the theme ‘Using Technology in Social Care’ through the Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series (KESS), at the Northern Irish Assembly, Stormont, Belfast, UK. In 2017, Hannah undertook an exploratory project called Technology4YoungAdults (T4YA) funded by the H&W PRA to explore the impact and attitudes of ICT on young adults.

Previously, Hannah worked on the MonetizeMe (EPSRC) project based in the Centre for Research in Computing, at The Open University. Hannah has international expeirence having worked as a research scientist at the Institute of Movement and Sport Gerontology at the German Sport University Cologne, on the EU project – iStoppFalls. Between August 2010-11, Hannah held the position of post-doctoral fellow at the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science, University of Waterloo.

Health and Wellbeing Research

Dr Hannah R. Marston is the Research Fellow in the Health & Wellbeing Strategic Research Area (H&W SRA), based in the School of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care in the Faculty of Wellbeing, Education, & Language Studies (WELs) at the Open University, Milton Keynes.

Hannah leads the Digital Health & Wellbeing Special Interest Group, situated under the H&W SRA and since November 2016, Hannah has organised several several events, symposiums and the 2nd Digital Health & Wellbeing Conference (May 2018).

Dr Hannah R. Marston
Research Fellow
Health & Wellbeing Priority Research Area
Ground Floor, Stuart Hall Building
School of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care
The Open University
Walton Drive, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK