BrainMatters • Fall/Winter 2021 • 7
CABHI's Seniors Advisory Panel (SAP) speaking with an innovator
"Over the last four years, the SAP has
reviewed a range of innovations, from
patient information management systems to
monitoring devices used to keep older adults
safe," says Walter Seaton, SAP member.
In March 2021, CABHI expanded its
co-design model to create Leap, a diverse
community of older adults and caregivers
interested in sharing their lived experiences
with innovators. Through collaborative
feedback sessions, targeted focus groups,
and design sprints, Leap members can test
emerging agetech and provide feedback
to innovators about the usability of their
products. Leap recognizes that older adults
possess unique insights that can enrich
the innovation process and help innovators
identify where to focus their attention.
"By appreciating the broader human
context and deeply understanding the
needs of their target audience, innovators
can create relevant and meaningful
products," explains Bianca Stern, Executive
Director, Health Innovations at CABHI.
COVID-19 has accelerated the development
of agetech solutions aimed at improving
quality of life, reducing social isolation,
and maintaining cognitive and mental
health among older adults living at
home and in long-term care homes. By
participating in co-design sessions, older
adults can feel empowered to advocate
for their individual healthcare needs and
shape their aging journeys.
To join or learn more about Leap, please
visit cabhi.com/leap
By appreciating
the broader
human context
and deeply
understanding
the needs of
their target
audience,
innovators can
create relevant
and meaningful
products.
Bianca Stern,
Executive Director,
Health Innovations at
CABHI
