Population ageing is a well-established trend that the world has witnessed over several decades. Eurostat reports that more than half of Europe’s population now exceeds the age of 44.4 years. This shift is the outcome of increased life expectancy and declining birth rates, leading to significant transformations in societal structures and dynamics.
In response to this demographic change, the realm of elder tech has emerged as a new arena for technological advancement. With a growing number of seniors aiming to maintain their independence and social engagement, the demand for elder-tech solutions has been rising. From wearable health monitors and smart home systems that facilitate daily tasks to digital platforms combating senior isolation, technology is stepping in to address the unique challenges posed by an ageing population.
On that note, we have meticulously curated a selection of 10 promising startups that have been founded from 2018 up until today, all with a strong emphasis on elder tech. These startups are dedicated to providing the elderly population with tools and resources to empower them and contribute to improving their quality of life.
Patronus Based in Berlin, Patronus Group is an elderly well-being solution. Their technologies prioritize health, exemplified by intelligent wearable software that empowers at-risk older adults to seek help whenever and wherever needed. Established in 2021, they have secured €27 million, reflecting the company’s commitment to developing life-enhancing products and services for the elderly and underserved communities.
GRANNY & CHARLY: Located in Malakoff, GRANNY & CHARLY is a digital platform addressing social isolation and ageism while offering opportunities for additional income and social inclusion for committed citizens. With the help of technology, they seamlessly pair users with compatible young workers who meet their expectations or those of their families. Established in 2020, they have successfully obtained €500K in funding, further advancing their commitment to nurturing intergenerational values and guaranteeing the continued social inclusion of every individual under their care.
Lottie: Headquartered in London, Lottie is a free service that helps families and retirees find the UK’s best care homes and retirement living communities. Their mission revolves around empowering care seekers and redefining caregiving practices. By pushing the boundaries of care provision, Lottie offers senior citizens the best possible support and services in today’s dynamic world. Founded in 2021 they have secured over €10.5 million aiming to lead the charge in modern and sustainable care transformation.
Family.cards (formerly Reach): Headquartered in Berlin, Family Cards is an easy and interactive device that converts any standard TV into an extremely simple-to-use senior hub. Through personalized cards, they facilitate access to video calls, activities, therapies, music, and so much more. Founded in 2022, they have secured €170K aiming to bridge generations through technology, enhancing the well-being and engagement of seniors.
Nobi: Based in Antwerpen, Nobi is a smart lamp designed to assist older adults. It provides immediate aid within 90 seconds after a fall, helping to prevent the severe consequences of lying on the floor too long. The lamp also features automatic circadian lighting to help maintain a natural daily rhythm and reduce disorientation. Soon, Nobi will also monitor cough frequency, enabling early detection of potential health issues. Founded in 2019, they have secured €13 million to combine cutting-edge optical sensors and AI in a stylish design, Nobi effortlessly blends into any interior while offering essential care.
Roble App: Headquartered in Barcelona, roble App is on a mission to enrich the lives of senior citizens. Through their wellness platform, they offer personalised training plans, gamification features, and diverse exercises to promote physical and cognitive well-being. Users can engage in mental training games to enhance memory and concentration, fostering an active and sharp lifestyle. Founded in 2021 they have secured over €50K.
The Joy Club: Based in London, The Joy Club is an online community addressing the issue of loneliness among the elderly. Through their online platform, they provide a range of engaging activities, events, classes, and experiences tailored to seniors allowing members to learn from experts, keep their minds and bodies active and connect with people who share their interests. Founded in 2019 they have raised over €1.3 million to keep fostering connections and enriching the lives of elderly individuals.
Oroi: Located in San Sebastian, Oroi is a virtual reality channel offering therapeutic solutions for elderly care professionals and institutions. Through VR experiences for cognitive stimulation and entertainment aimed at working on emotions and memory in the elderly, Oroi is able to enhance the well-being and care of seniors. Founded in 2018 with a funding of €400K they aim to improve the lives of elderly individuals in care settings.
JIB: Paris-based JIB, focuses on creating innovative solutions comprising connected objects, applications, software and dedicated equipment, designed to promote the day-to-day autonomy of people with motor disabilities. Their connected home device introduces advanced technology to enhance mobility and independence. Founded in 2018 they have secured over €850K to cater to the needs of people contributing to improving their quality of life.
MiiCare: Headquartered in London, MiiCare is a social enterprise set up by a group of professionals with diverse industry backgrounds, ranging from healthcare to technology and product development. At the core of their mission is “Monica,” a digital health coach and companion that empowers older adults to take charge of their personal health and well-being. Through non-intrusive smart home technology, MiiCare’s ecosystem of IoT sensors and telehealth devices captures vital information and daily activities, providing insights to both caregivers and loved ones. Founded in 2018 they are leveraging the power of AI to raise alerts when abnormalities are detected, allowing for early detection of illness.
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Read the orginal article: https://www.eu-startups.com/2023/10/10-european-startups-improving-the-quality-of-life-for-senior-citizens/
