The SilversSummit at CES in January, 2009 was the first-ever track in this giant consumer product show that focused on technology for boomers and seniors. To one observer, there were as many vendors at the event wondering about market entry as active. Based on my surfing of boatloads of websites lately, to those in and considering entry – here are 10 steps to take:
I have been struck lately by disconnects between desire and reality -- what boomers and seniors want to happen and what may actually happen. In each one of these, planning is skipped in favor of dealing later with misery.
This news item makes me very angry and should enrage you as well -- but you don't have to be a futurist to see how it could and should be prevented -- in assisted living facilities as well as nursing homes. So two teenage aides who were 'working' at a Minnesota nursing home -- ironically run by the 'Good Samaritans' -- have been charged this week with extreme abuse of multiple Alzheimer's residents over many months.
Today, most ALFs and continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) have not invested broadly in home monitoring technology. But some new CCRCs are designed from the ground up. Some, like Lutheran Home Association of Minnesota, have invested in wireless broadband, providing an opportunity for Minnesota-based Healthsense™ to implement its eNeighbor™ product line throughout as a means to facilitate aging in place.
Demos dazzle when done right. And a CES/Silvers Summit demo of HP's TouchSmart 'all-in-one' computer (available for the past year) demo'd as an appealing product for boomers and seniors -- starting at $1299.99 on HP's store. Although, the experience of owning one may still benefit from a Geek Squad-like visit for setting it up -- for those who get dizzy when faced with a box full of components.
It's been a long couple of days. So many vendors, so little brain capacity left. But let's get right down to the point. Silvers Summit is the first time CES has ever had a day-long track allocated to discussions and presentations about technology and aging.
