We explore creative solutions and re-imagine what life as we get older can look like. Though we’re all getting older, this is about much more than our individual experiences. How can we influence the future of aging for all generations through policy, innovation and culture shift?
http://www.thefutureage.ca
episode 3: The Possibilities of Agetech
Dive into the world of agetech. Host Zannat Reza navigates the promising field of agetech with Keren Etkin, a gerontologist, an agetech author, and host of the AgeTech Podcast. Together they delve into a world where technology meets aging, discussing the tremendous opportunities being unlocked by agetech startups and the unique challenges they face. They explore the transformative role of AI chat, such as GPT, in this space and address the critical issues around data privacy in the digital age.
In the second part of the conversation, Keren introduces the concept of 'high-tech, high-touch' aging, envisioning a future where technology works in harmony with the human element in elder care. They discuss the financial side of agetech, exploring how venture capital plays a pivotal role in the growth of the industry. Additionally, they dig into the impact of initiatives like ENVISAGE in providing Canadian startups with a gateway to the burgeoning agetech market. This episode is a tour-de-force of the agetech landscape, offering a comprehensive outlook on how technology is reshaping our perception and experience of aging.
Chapter Time Stamps:
(00:00:00) Episode Introduction
The episode starts with a brief introduction of our guest, Keren Etkin, an accomplished Gerontologist and a leading figure in the agetech industry. Keren's rich background sets the tone for an engaging discussion on the transformative potential of agetech.
(00:02:45) Understanding Agetech
Keren provides a primer on agetech, explaining what it is and how it's revolutionizing the way we age. She shares some real-life examples of agetech products and services that are making a positive impact on the lives of older adults.
(00:08:00) Agetech Startup Challenges
Keren highlights the unique challenges that age tech startups face, as well as a discussion on how technology can help improve the lives of older adults and their caregivers.
(00:10:55) AI and Agetech Intersection
The conversation moves into the realm of AI chat, discussing its current role and future potential in the age tech ecosystem. Keren explains how AI is already being used and provides a future vision for AI-driven conversational products.
(00:13:39) The Importance of Data Privacy
Keren and Zannat delve into the crucial topic of data privacy. They discuss the trade-off between convenience and privacy and the importance of being mindful of data sharing in the digital age.
(00:15:40) Role of an Agetech Evangelist
Keren shares her personal experience as an age-tech evangelist. She highlights the need to raise awareness about age-tech solutions and sheds light on the challenges faced by startups in this space.
(00:17:30) Funding in Agetech
The conversation shifts to the financial aspect of age-tech startups. Keren provides a snapshot of the venture capital landscape and offers advice to founders on accessing funds.
(00:19:30) The ENVISAGE Initiative
Zannat and Keren discuss the ENVISAGE initiative, a Canadian program that aims to provide startups and SMEs access to the burgeoning age-tech market.
(00:20:00) Current Agetech Market Offerings
The episode explores some existing age tech solutions, like those from Best Buy Canada and Telus, designed to make homes safer and more functional for older adults.
(0:21:00) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions
Keren answers the final 2 future of aging questions we ask all our guests.
- (00:00) - Episode Introduction
- (02:45) - Understanding AgeTech
- (08:00) - Agetech Startup Challenges
- (10:55) - AI and AgeTech Intersection
- (13:39) - The Importance of Data Privacy
- (15:40) - Role of an AgeTech Evangelist
- (17:30) - Funding in Age-Tech
- (19:30) - The ENVISAGE Initiative
- (20:00) - Current AgeTech Market Offerings
- (21:00) - - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions