Senior citizens were already battling an epidemic of loneliness, but COVID-19 really exacerbated it. They are now further isolated, depending on technology and a plethora of services for social interactions, medical assistance, and groceries.
As I report for the New York Times today, grandkids-on-demand could help solve the issue.
While Silicon Valley released a host of apps and technology—even robots—to serve as elderly babysitters, digital health startups like Mon Ami and Papa invest in what’s irreplaceable: human connection. These apps facilitate senior companion care services, everything from friendly Zoom calls to prescription pick-ups, even virtual movement classes. They now supply nursing homes and members with tablets and technology tutorials.
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