Can age-friendly tech get better?

In this episode of Round Table, Heyang, Steve Hatherly, and Ding Heng discuss the challenges and potential solutions surrounding age-friendly technology. They highlight the high abandonment rate of smart devices designed for the elderly, pointing out that many products focus on health monitoring while seniors need solutions for fall prevention and emergency response. The panel explores reasons for this disconnect, including emotional rejection due to usability issues, the digital entry barrier for non-internet users, and designs that don't accommodate the physical limitations of older adults. They suggest a shift towards simpler, more applicable designs, emphasizing the importance of aligning tech with the real-world needs and experiences of elderly users, and question whether manufacturers are designing for the actual users or for those who purchase the products. The discussion includes examples of successful and unsuccessful tech implementations, stressing the need for user-friendly, reliable, and cost-effective solutions that enable seniors to live independently and comfortably in their homes.