CES 2023 Highlights – Expert Observations, Dementia Telephone, Digital Smart Badge for Hearing Loss Communications, At-home Rehabilitation Therapy
In this episode, join us to hear about innovations from the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), including observations from organizers, industry experts, and leaders from companies with solutions that enhance accessibility, inclusivity, and at-home rehabilitation compliance.
This show (recorded on January 12, 2023) is part of the CES Highlights Series and included the following guests in the order they presented:
Steve Ewell, (Executive Director, Consumer Technology Association Foundation), which produces CES, including supporting accessibility startups. This year’s event drew 115,000 attendees from all over the world and featured 3,200 exhibitors while encouraging a deep conversation around disabilities under the theme: “Human Security for ALL.”
Rick Robinson (VP, AgeTech Collaborative from AARP) noted the uptick in interest in age-tech among investors, and the great response to the Age Tech Collaborative’s Pavilion, which showcased 19 start-ups offering a wide range of innovations.
Michael Phillips (Technology Strategy and Relationships Director, AARP) pointed out this year’s show’s stronger focus on meaningful collaborations (and fewer “gadgets”) and the high volume of sound and excitement around “age-tech” as a category.
Amy Li, (CEO and Exhibitor – Dance4Healing) mentioned the high number of international visitors, and the ample opportunities to have discussions with folks from a variety of sectors (state, national, military, etc.).
Robert Felgar, (Founder, CEO and Exhibitor – Raz Mobility and its “Raz Cellphone”) is making a contribution to dementia caregiving by extending phone usage among dementia and Alzheimer’s patients by 2-3 years, allowing human interaction between care receivers and caregivers.
Raz Mobility is currently an AgeTech from AARP portfolio company
Mike Williston, (Co-Founder and CEO and Exhibitor, Satellite Displays and its “Badger” product) – a static ID badge with digital powers that helps both caregivers AND care receivers to communicate with more ease).
Andrew Chang, (Head of US Business for H Robotics Inc. and Exhibitor and its “rebless” product) pointed out that with much rehabilitation therapy done “at home,” their robotics device helps with consistent and sustainable recovery without requiring a PT on-site, reaching the patient where they are.
Frances West, (Accessibility Expert and Founder, Frances West & Co.) reminded us it’s been only four short years since IBM leadership spoke at CES and talked about the imperative for “Out Thinking Aging” – and for using technology to support “aging and happiness.” The progress has been impressive.
Elizabeth Magallon-Fleury, (Owner, Life’s Encore Planning, and CES Attendee) observed that many products were not “pie in the sky” – but rather were practical, user-friendly, and not clunky to use. Two she loved: Good Maps (mapping indoor environments for those with sight impairments) and Kizik’s step-in shoes.
As with CES itself, the conversation highlighted the growing need for age-friendly products and services, along with the potential of technology to support and empower older adults.
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Hosted by: Linda Sherman, Debbie Howard and Carol Chiang. Further info on them is in the sidebar, fifth item with a microphone symbol.
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Music: Solemnity written and performed by Richard Sherman
