Connecting the older population through technology and tea!

Back in the Spring the IBM Institute for Business Value published a report on Loneliness and the Aging Population. This was based on a study in which we spoke to over 50 experts from six countries and representing a wide variety of disciplines ranging from academia, public health, foundations, advocacy groups and businesses.

My colleague and report co-author, Sheila Zinck has just launched a series of monthly blogs where we'll take a deeper look into some of these discussions. Sheila's inaugural blog is with the executive director of AustinUP, Teresa Sansone Ferguson. Teresa describes a range of public-private partnerships who are developing innovative programs in Central Texas, to serve both today's older population as well as preparing the next generation for aging.

At IBM, our aging and eldercare initiatives are providing cognitive solutions to allow the elderly independence and connectivity with friends and family. Teresa, in her interview makes the point that whilst technology is important, it will not entirely replace the human touch. In other words, it still up to us as individuals to make that telephone call home to aged parents or to share a cup of tea with neighbours!

If you missed our original report, please go to ibm.biz/loneliness for more information. Let us know your thoughts on this important topic.