In a bustling city of 1.4 crore residents, Bengaluru’s elderly population is finding solace and connection through innovative age-tech solutions. Raghavendra, a 73-year-old electrical engineer who recently moved to the city to live with his daughter, discovered a newfound sense of community through WhatsApp groups tailored for seniors. Loneliness, a common challenge faced by many elders, was alleviated as Raghavendra shared stories of bonding over cake and travel plans with his newfound online tribe.
Finding Purpose and Connection
Research on longevity and ageing has been gaining global attention, with initiatives such as the Longevity India Initiative launched by the Indian Institute of Science in 2024. This project aims to extend the ‘health span’ of individuals and address age-related challenges. Maverick millionaires like Bryan Johnson are also delving into anti-ageing experiments, reflecting a growing interest in innovative solutions for the elderly population.
Age-tech start-ups are emerging as a promising sector to address the unique needs of seniors in a changing social landscape. Neeraj Sagar, the founder of Wisdom Circle, spearheaded an online group of age-tech founders in India, fostering collaboration and innovation in the realm of elderly care. The group’s rapid growth from 40 to 100 founders in just a year underscores the increasing demand for age-tech solutions in India.
Empowering Seniors Through Technology
Vibha Singal, the founder of Sukoon Unlimited, emphasizes the importance of addressing the emotional well-being of ageing parents, a concern often overshadowed by physical health and logistical needs. Sukoon, established in 2024, is India’s first platform for seniors, offering services ranging from emotional support to volunteering opportunities. The community-driven approach of Sukoon, where both service providers and recipients are seniors above 50, fosters a sense of purpose and belonging among users.
Miranda, a 59-year-old finance professional, found comfort and guidance through Sukoon when facing the prospect of retirement. The platform’s focus on combating loneliness and fostering community connections resonates with many users, reflecting the growing need for holistic support systems for seniors.
Creating Opportunities for Continued Engagement
Neeraj Sagar’s Wisdom Circle plays a pivotal role in connecting retired professionals with employment opportunities, catering to both the desire for continued engagement and the need for financial security among seniors. The platform’s success in matching skilled retirees with roles at small businesses and start-ups highlights the evolving landscape of post-retirement employment.
The motivation to work beyond retirement goes beyond financial rewards, as Neeraj Sagar notes. Many seniors seek roles that offer a sense of purpose, respect, and an opportunity to share their expertise with the next generation. The trend of applying for lower-paying roles or nonprofit positions underscores the intrinsic value of staying relevant and engaged in later years.
Preserving Cognitive Health Through Innovation
Ivory, a cognitive health start-up founded by Issac John and Rahul Krishnan, aims to address the rising prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases in India. By providing neuroscience-backed assessments and personalized brain training sessions, Ivory helps users identify cognitive risks early and maintain brain health. The platform’s user-friendly approach has garnered a significant user base, predominantly from tier-1 cities and among female users.
Translead Medtech, a deep-tech spin-off from IISc, Bengaluru, focuses on enhancing physical health through innovative solutions for seniors. The company’s assistive chair design offers crucial support for basic tasks like sitting and standing, addressing mobility challenges faced by many elderly individuals. By prioritizing accessibility and functionality, Translead Medtech aims to improve the quality of life for seniors and reduce the risk of injuries.
Balancing Innovation with User Needs
While technology has the potential to revolutionize elderly care, experts caution against prioritizing tech advancements over user needs. Arvind Kasthuri, head of the geriatric unit at St John’s Medical College, stresses the importance of aligning technological solutions with real-world healthcare requirements. By considering patient flows and practical applications, tech developers can create solutions that truly benefit the elderly population.
Pretesh Kiran, an Associate Professor at St John’s Medical College, highlights the urban-rural disparity in age-tech adoption and emphasizes the need for user-friendly digital tools for seniors. As digitization progresses rapidly, there is a growing concern about excluding older demographics from technological advancements, leaving them vulnerable to scams and digital challenges.
Building Inclusive Age-Tech Solutions
As the age-tech sector expands, there is a call for greater collaboration between government entities, corporates, and start-ups to make services accessible to a wider population of seniors. Susan Barton, an eldercare specialist in Bengaluru, advocates for inclusive practices that bridge the tech gap between urban and rural areas. By leveraging collective resources and expertise, stakeholders can ensure that age-tech solutions cater to the diverse needs of India’s ageing population.
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of age-tech in Bengaluru offers a glimpse into the future of elderly care, blending innovation with empathy to empower seniors and create vibrant communities. From combating loneliness to preserving cognitive health and enhancing physical well-being, age-tech solutions are reshaping the narrative of ageing in India. By prioritizing inclusivity, user-centric design, and collaborative partnerships, the age-tech sector holds immense potential to enrich the lives of seniors and foster a more age-friendly society.
