Just ahead of the IEEE Evolution Conference, we hosted a dynamic 1.5-day AgeTech Workshop that brought together experts, innovators, and global participants focused on advancing technology for aging populations.

We kicked off the afternoon session with welcoming remarks from George Arnold, followed by a thought-provoking keynote from Mike Andrews, Vice Chair, titled “Thinking Globally, Acting Locally, Taking it Personally – An Individual and Stakeholder Perspective.”

Five insightful presentations followed, most delivered virtually:

  • Prof. Hari Subadhra (College of Engineering, Hyderabad, India) explored the evolving role of wearables.
  • Brittne Kakulla (AARP) highlighted age-friendly tech solutions.
  • Peter Wishart (IEEE SSIT) discussed standards development.
  • Radia Funna (UN Special Advisor) introduced a paradigm shift toward Age-Responsive Design.
  • Eugene Chang (AgeTech Executive Committee) examined the opportunities around standards and measurement.

In total, 46 individuals registered to participate—about 10 in person and the rest remotely—underscoring the global interest in AgeTech innovation.

The second day featured two additional international speakers:

  • Ruomei Li (Tsinghua University, China) shared AgeTech perspectives and concerns from China.
  • Radia Sandic-Spaho (Nord University, Norway) presented findings from her palliative care research.

From Discussion to Direction

Participants then split into two working groups—Education and Standards—to discuss strategic next steps. A key takeaway: AgeTech is an expansive field, and a more focused approach is essential for impact.

The group agreed to prioritize four initial areas:

  1. Wearables (broadly defined)
  2. Intelligent home solutions for aging in place
  3. Robotics for caregiving
  4. Wearable robotics

We’re also launching the AgeTech Resource Hub (ARCH)—a centralized space to showcase ongoing and completed work in the AgeTech space. Another exciting initiative includes building a volunteer network of testers from the target population to ensure co-designed, not just consumer-directed, solutions.

AgeTech-specific sessions also continued throughout the Evolution Conference, reinforcing the momentum from the workshop.

Get Involved in Shaping the Future of AgeTech

We invite you to be part of this growing global movement.

  • Learn more and register here: IEEE SA AgeTech Website
  • After registering, fill out this form to express your interest in one of the four study groups.
  • Have ideas for other key focus areas in AgeTech, Aging, or Longevity? Email us at: agetech-officers@ieee.org

Together, we’re not just imagining a better future for aging populations—we’re building it.