Technology and Innovation For The Growing Gray Wave Of Aging Adults S13 Ep15

The boomer market is quickly becoming the target demographic that is driving a new category of technology and innovation. The desire to allow those in this gray wave of aging adults to age in place is one area of innovation we all can appreciate. In this weeks show, serial entrepreneur and technology executive Wendi Burkhardt shares how she found her purpose project by bringing technology and innovation to the gray wave of aging adults. Technology and Innovation For The Gray Wave During the show, we answer questions such as: What was the experienced that cause your to co-found Silvernest? People are living longer than ever and wanting to age in place. What are the opportunities that aging adults present as a large (and growing) segment of the economic and consumer base? How does technology and innovation cater to this growing gray wave? What are some of the emerging trends in the aging demographic that are fueling innovation? Is it harder for companies to innovate in the aging industry because they're perceived as serving a lower-tech audience? Are Boomers more receptive to new technologies than their parents were? How are their outlooks and circumstances different? Are you finding that the 50+ demographic is open to participating in the sharing economy? How is the sharing economy and technology transforming aging? You've called gerontechnology – the blending of gerontology with technology – the hottest thing in Silicon Valley. Why is it so attractive and set to explode? Some of the innovation in this space is obviously coming technology, but are there other ways that companies need to innovate in their thinking or marketing to reach Boomers, empty nesters and other aging adults? How do we need to be shifting the conversation around innovation and technology for gray wave? What recommendations do you have for companies who are working to innovate in ways that serve aging adults? About Wendi Burkhardt As CEO of Silvernest, Wendi Burkhardt is responsible for driving the company's overall direction and strategic growth, as well as overseeing day-to-day operations. She boasts more than 25 years of technology experience working with venture startups, emerging technology companies, rapid-growth tech firms and Fortune 500 corporations. Her history also includes working with Home Instead, a $1B in-home, senior care corporation as a key client. She is a seasoned entrepreneur, as well as a mentor and coach to social ventures. Wendi holds a degree in International Trade & Finance from Louisiana State University, and has completed an executive education program at Northwestern University's Kellogg Graduate School of Management.