Tag: social isolation

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The following is a recap from Varsity’s Roundtable, a weekly virtual gathering of senior living marketers and leaders from across the nation. For updates about future weekly Roundtable gatherings, submit your name and email address here. 

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Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming part of everyday life, and one of its most promising applications may be helping older adults stay connected, engaged and independent. 

That was the focus of a recent session of Varsity’s weekly Roundtable featuring Assaf Gad, VP of Strategy and General Manager at Intuition Robotics, the company behind ElliQ, an AI-powered companion created specifically for older adults. Gad shared how AI companions are helping reduce loneliness, personalize support and strengthen the circle of care without replacing family members or caregivers. Below are a few Fresh Perspectives from his discussion.

AI SHOULD STRENGTHEN HUMAN CONNECTION, NOT REPLACE IT

The most effective AI companions don’t replace caregivers or family members. They make it easier for older adults to stay connected to the people, services and communities that support them.

PROACTIVE AI CAN DRIVE BETTER OUTCOMES

The biggest difference between an AI companion and a voice assistant is initiative. By learning routines and offering timely prompts, AI can encourage healthier habits, stronger social connections and greater independence.

PERSONALIZATION BUILDS TRUST AND ADOPTION

Older adults don’t need to master the technology on day one. AI that adapts to each person’s pace, preferences and comfort level creates stronger engagement and long-term adoption.

THE GOAL IS INDEPENDENCE, NOT SURVEILLANCE

Successful AI solutions give older adults more control over their lives. Consent, dignity and user choice should remain at the center of every interaction and every connection with caregivers.

AI CAN HELP CARE TEAMS WORK SMARTER

AI companions can surface timely insights, automate routine check-ins and promote community programs, allowing staff to prioritize residents who need the most attention while improving engagement across the community.

VARSITY’S FRESH PERSPECTIVE

AI companions represent one of the most promising applications of artificial intelligence in senior living because they address a uniquely human challenge: connection. While much of the AI conversation focuses on automation and efficiency, technologies like ElliQ remind us that AI can also strengthen relationships, encourage healthy behaviors and help older adults maintain their independence. 

The most successful solutions won’t replace people, they’ll help people stay more connected to one another. For senior living organizations, the opportunity extends beyond adopting new technology, it’s about thoughtfully integrating AI into the resident experience and using it to support care teams and personalize everyday interactions.

Consider this: 45% of LGBTQ+ older adults report a lack of companionship, and nearly half feel socially isolated. Those realities underscore why inclusive, affirming environments in senior living aren’t optional, they’re essential. As communities continue working toward more person-centered experiences, conversations around belonging, trust and cultural competency matter more than ever.

As part of Varsity’s Pride Month celebration, we caught up with Karen Cushing, Director of SAGECare Business Development and a past guest on Varsity’s weekly Roundtable. Karen has spent years helping senior living organizations better support LGBTQ+ older adults through education, advocacy and practical guidance. In this Q&A, she shares insights on inclusion, connection, Pride programming and the small actions that can make a meaningful difference.

DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE AT SAGECARE AND THE WORK SAGECARE IS DOING TO SUPPORT LGBTQ+ OLDER ADULTS. 

As Director of SAGECare Business Development, I build partnerships to expand LGBTQ+ cultural competency training across aging services, healthcare, and community providers. My work focuses on meeting organizations where they are and helping them take practical steps toward becoming more inclusive and affirming.

SAGECare supports providers with training and credentialing that improve care for LGBTQ+ older adults, ensuring they can age with dignity, respect, and a sense of belonging. This work addresses longstanding gaps, helping reduce fear and barriers rooted in past discrimination by creating environments where people feel safe being their authentic selves.

WHY DO SO MANY LGBTQ+ OLDER ADULTS STILL HESITATE TO TRUST HEALTHCARE AND SENIOR LIVING PROVIDERS? 

Many LGBTQ+ older adults approach care with caution shaped by past discrimination, including bias, denial of services, or having to hide who they were to stay safe. These experiences, rooted in a time when being openly LGBTQ+ could risk jobs, housing, or safety, still impact trust today.

Even now, gaps in cultural competency and small signals; like non-inclusive forms or assumptions, can reinforce hesitation. That hesitation is not misplaced; it’s informed by lived experience. SAGECare’s work helps rebuild trust by supporting providers in creating environments where LGBTQ+ older adults feel seen, respected, and safe being themselves.

WHY IS LONELINESS AND ISOLATION SUCH A SIGNIFICANT ISSUE WITHIN THE LGBTQ+ OLDER ADULT COMMUNITY? 

Loneliness and isolation are significant challenges for many LGBTQ+ older adults, often because traditional support systems haven’t been available or safe. While many have built strong “chosen families,” those networks can shrink over time due to loss, illness, or distance.

Stigma and fear of discrimination can also lead people to withdraw from services or even hide their identity again, making it harder to find connection. Combined with a lack of inclusive aging spaces, this can deepen isolation.

At SAGECare, we see inclusion as key to addressing this, when environments feel safe and affirming, people are more likely to connect, engage, and build a true sense of community and belonging.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE SMALLEST CHANGES SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITIES CAN MAKE THAT HAVE THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON LGBTQ+ RESIDENTS FEELING SAFE AND WELCOME? 

Small changes can have a big impact because they signal that people are seen and belong. Inclusive language on forms, visible affirmations like Pride symbols, and clear nondiscrimination statements all help create a sense of safety.

Staff training is just as important, using chosen names and pronouns, avoiding assumptions, and showing respect in everyday interactions can build trust. Creating inclusive programming and opportunities for connection further fosters belonging.

It doesn’t have to be complex to be meaningful. Consistency, authenticity, and respect go a long way in helping LGBTQ+ residents feel safe, seen, and at home.

HOW CAN PRIDE MONTH PROGRAMMING MOVE BEYOND CELEBRATION AND CREATE MORE MEANINGFUL CONNECTION INSIDE SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITIES? 

Pride Month programming can go beyond celebration to build real connections in senior living communities. While visibility and joy matter, the greatest impact comes from creating space for storytelling, shared experiences, and meaningful conversation that foster empathy.

Pride can also serve as an entry point for education through staff training, resident discussions, and intergenerational programs that deepen understanding and support more inclusive interactions.

The key is continuity using Pride as a catalyst for year-round inclusion through ongoing programming, policies, and daily practices. When done with intention, Pride becomes more than a moment; it helps ensure LGBTQ+ residents feel seen, valued, and connected every day.