Age-Well, Ikea, and the University of Toronto collaborate to create a tech studio focused on innovative solutions for seniors to live independently longer.
In an exciting collaboration, Age-Well, Ikea, and the University of Toronto have partnered to open a new Innovation Studio in downtown Toronto. This new space at 800 Bay Street is designed to develop and test technologies aimed at helping seniors live independently for as long as possible, supporting their ability to stay in their homes as they age.
A Vision for Independent Living
The Innovation Studio, designed to resemble a one-bedroom apartment, offers a showcase of various health monitoring systems, smart home technologies, and other state-of-the-art gadgets aimed at enhancing the daily lives of seniors.
The space is equipped with voice-activated assistants, health monitoring tools, and a service robot that helps carry groceries to the kitchen, illustrating how technology can assist seniors in maintaining autonomy. Additionally, the studio includes a smart stove that alerts users if it’s left unattended, along with a stationary bike equipped with an “exergame” to support both physical and cognitive health.
A Collaborative Hub for Innovation
The studio not only serves as a demonstration space but also acts as a hub for collaboration. Age-Well aims to connect startups, large corporations, senior living organizations, and investors to work together on cutting-edge solutions. The facility is already being utilized by Age-Well affiliated startups, including remote monitoring company AltumView, exercise game maker Centivizer, medical alert company Chirp, and Tochtech Technologies, which offers products like a stove safety solution.
“Our ultimate goal is to enable older adults to live independently for longer and enhance their quality of life while fostering collaboration between researchers, companies, and the community,” said Alex Mihailidis, Age-Well’s Academic Director.
A Growing Need for Aging Technology
With an increasing number of seniors in Canada—one in four Canadians could be over the age of 65 by 2035—there’s a significant demand for aging technology solutions. Age-Well’s new studio responds to this growing need, aiming to develop technologies that allow seniors to live more independently in their own homes for longer.
The project receives support from various stakeholders, including the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, and Ikea, who furnished the studio. The collaboration underscores the importance of working across disciplines to develop solutions that will help improve the lives of aging adults in Canada.
A Strong Foundation for the Future
Founded in 2015 with support from the federally funded Networks of Excellence, Age-Well has long been dedicated to advancing aging technology. The organization has also received significant funding, including $47 million CAD in 2022 for the envisAGE Network, which aims to promote seniors’ autonomy, connectivity, and health.
This collaboration between Age-Well, Ikea, and the University of Toronto marks a major step forward in making innovative solutions for aging a reality.
Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for more updates on how Age-Well and its partners are driving innovation in senior care and independence.
