> Why not just have people to keep people company.

This has actually been tried in the Netherlands, apparently with great success. University students can live rent-free in a retirement community on the condition that they spend time with the residents.

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/dutch-retirement-home-of...

That's actually an awesome way to get someone to stay participating! Basically each would conspire to keep the user in the discussion! I'm down to build it if anyone wants to collaborate ;)