Can Technology Reduce Loneliness in Older Adults? | Mayo Clinic Aging Forward Podcast

Technology has made it easier than ever to stay connected, yet loneliness among older adults continues to rise. Why does loneliness persist in a world filled with smartphones, social media, video calls and AI? On this episode of Aging Forward, Dr. Christina Chen talks with Scott Lien, founder of GrandPad, about how technology can help older adults stay connected, independent and engaged as they age. They explore the growing loneliness epidemic, the health risks of social isolation, how age-friendly technology can improve quality of life, and why simple human connection still matters most. Scott shares lessons from designing technology specifically for seniors, practical tips for avoiding scams, and how tools like telehealth, wearable devices, remote monitoring and video calls can support healthy aging. In this episode: • The connection between loneliness and healthy aging • How social isolation affects physical and mental health • Why many older adults struggle with technology • Age-friendly technology design principles • How GrandPad helps seniors stay connected • Telehealth and technology for aging in place • AI, wearable devices and the future of aging • Preventing scams and protecting online privacy • Building meaningful social connections later in life • How technology can support independence and longevity Whether you're an older adult, a caregiver, or simply interested in healthy aging, this conversation offers practical insights into using technology to strengthen relationships and improve well-being. Listen to more Aging Forward episodes at https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/podcasts/aging-forward/ 0:00 Technology, loneliness and aging 1:21 Scott Lien’s path to age tech 3:34 Why connection still feels lonely 7:29 Loneliness as a health risk 9:11 Designing technology for older adults 11:15 GrandPad’s origin and impact 13:26 Barriers to age-friendly technology 15:25 Technology supporting health and independence 20:00 Helping older adults stay connected 21:32 Safety, privacy and scam prevention 25:27 Human-centered design principles 32:05 The future of aging and AI From Mayo Clinic to your inbox (free): https://mayocl.in/3e71zfi Visit Mayo Clinic: https://mayocl.in/2COVmlm Connect with Mayo Clinic: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mayoclinic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayoclinic X: https://x.com/MayoClinic Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mayoclinic