July 15, 2021 | by HITLAB Staff
Although people want to enjoy their longer lifespan and live fulfilling satisfying lives, society and the marketplace have not created sufficient opportunities for the 50-plus to build and maintain social connections and engage with their communities and the broader world
HITLAB and AARP Innovation Labs hosted today the seven finalists for the Social Connections Challenge, which sought out digital innovations to combat loneliness and social isolation an issue that affects many adults as they age. The finalists presented their novel solutions in front of a global audience and a distinguished panel of judges on for their chance to win runner-up prizes of $5,000 and $10,0000 HITLAB sponsorships. The grand prize winner has the opportunity to compete in AARP Innovation Labs’ 2021 Grand Pitch Finale and consideration to become a member of AARP’s startup portfolio.
In the past year, we have seen just how critical technology is in reducing social isolation among older adults, from ordering groceries to telehealth visits and connecting with loved ones. We look forward to hearing how these innovative solutions can help further address the issue of social isolation and loneliness among older adults and inviting the winner to this year’s AARP Innovation Labs Grand Pitch Finale.
Learn More About Our Finalists
Care. Coach (Millbrae, California)- Care.Coach is a tech company that supports individuals in the home to improve healthcare delivery. by using digital avatars powered by artificial intelligence enables relationships, coaches risk-mitigation, and behaviors to help coordinate care.
Caregiven (Portland, Oregon)- Caregiven is a digital platform that empowers and guides caregivers to help with the challenges and responsibilities that come with caring for individuals.
Family Proud (San Diego, CA)- Family Proud is an easy and secure management tool that provides resources, care, and allows other caregiver members to connect to individuals who are also caring for their family members.
Hank (New York, New York) – Hank simplifies healthcare delivery for caregivers and enables them to view, manage, and automate tasks and responsibilities for their loved ones as they age.
Joylux (Seattle, Washington)- Joylux focuses on providing better health outcomes for women who are going through menopause using high tech devices and digital tools.
SelfHelp (New York, New York)- SelfHelp Virtual Senior Center (VSC) is a virtual center for homebound older adults. Operating 7 days a week, live classes take place year-round online to connect older adults and form a vibrant online community.
Wowzitude (Woodcliff, New Jersey) – Wowzitude is a virtual tour and travel program with 50+ destinations that allows older adults to connect and engage in conversations within their communities.
About HITLAB
HITLAB is an impact-first organization that offers digital health research, teaching, and advisory services to improve health delivery around the world.
At HITLAB, we believe technology and health can work together to improve the quality of health delivery and healthcare worldwide. We use rigorous research and evidence-based methods to identify the best digital health solutions for each of our partners.
About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation’s largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org, www.aarp.org/espanol or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.
For over twenty years, HITLAB has been a pioneer in the advancement of digital health research, strategy, and education. In 2016, the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) partnered with HITLAB to launch the Digital Health Breakthrough Network (DHBN) as part of its broader efforts to facilitate growth in New York City’s healthcare and life sciences sectors.
Virtual event brings together health executives from across the industry to share insights on the impact of digital health on human rights. New York, NY, USA. On Thursday, October 27th, HITLAB will host its October Digital Health Symposium focused on digital health and human rights. Moona, MST and Cancer Center.AI are digital health organizations, part of Americas Continental Health Alliance (ACHA), who are currently making a global impact.
A third of the world’s population have symptoms of depression and anxiety. Mental health services were already over-stretched before 2020, but since the pandemic prevalence of anxiety and depression skyrocketed.
