HITLAB and AARP Innovation Labs invite startups across the country to apply for the 2021 Social Connections Challenge, now through June 20. The Challenge seeks digital innovations that aim to combat loneliness and social isolation, an issue that affects many adults as they age.

A recent AARP survey found many Americans age 50-plus struggle to access and afford high-speed internet.

AARP Innovation Labs announced today its collaboration with 10 startups in the 2021 MassChallenge HealthTech and FinTech accelerator programs. MassChallenge, now in its 12th year, accelerates innovation by forming collaborations between later-stage digital health and financial startups with industry-leading organizations, like AARP, to solve some of the greatest challenges in health care and the financial services industry. As part of this work, the startups will present to potential investors and business customers at AARP Innovation Labs’ annual Demo Day on May 25.

With older adults remaining at a higher risk for severe illness and isolation as the COVID-19 pandemic lingers, NRTA: AARP’s Educator Community has announced the launch of the 2021 We Care grant program.

WASHINGTON–In a year with a global pandemic significantly limiting social interaction, technology became more important than ever, especially for older adults. New research from AARP found that more older adults (44%) view tech more positively as a way stay connected than they did before COVID-19. In addition, 4 out of 5 adults age 50+ rely on technology to stay connected and in touch with family and friends.