Covid-19 has highlighted the importance of meaningful social interactions to maintain physical and mental health for everyone. Studies indicate that social isolation and loneliness cause depression, chronic diseases, dementia, and even premature death. 

Even with social media and advanced technologies, people still feel lonely and isolated. 

Before the pandemic, one in five Americans – specifically 60% of young adults and 40% of older adults – reported feeling lonely. 

While live streaming software and web conferencing are good for communication, and we can reach and connect with thousands of people in real time, they are not necessarily adequate for intimate emotional connections essential for individuals’ well-beings. People need real feelings of belongingness. ActiveSages wants to simulate in-person encounters as much as possible so that individuals even far away and isolated feel emotionally connected to others. 

While loneliness and social isolation are not limited to the elderly, it is a fact that the world is aging: 20% of the global population in the developed world is over 65 years old. And the US will reach that point by 2030, while some Asian and European nations have already passed that point – their elderly populations have already reached 30% and growing.  One in four older adults has impaired mobility and experiences social isolation as a result. In addition to general needs, we believe that solutions like ours are particularly useful for these growing older/adult populations.