ElliQ, a digital care companion for older adults, was named Time’s Best Invention of 2022 in the Accessibility category.

The AI-powered device from Intuition Robotics is geared to help people over the age of 65 live healthier, happier, and more independent lifestyles at home. The ‘agetech’ software offers health features with health goal settings and tracking, pain assessment conversations, and cognitive games. It also hosts communication capabilities, audiobooks, and other entertainment options.

Within the first six months of the software’s release in March, the company found that 80% of its users reported less loneliness and 82% stayed mentally active. These promising results could make a positive impact on the decline of aging adults.

"Seeing ElliQ positively change the lives of so many older adults is a dream come true for our team, who has worked so hard on bringing ElliQ to market," said Dor Skuler, CEO and co-founder of Intuition Robotics.

Already, state governments like the New York State Office for the Aging, senior living communities, and health care organizations are embracing the AI companion.

Recently, an improved version of the hardware and software was released for a more robust digital experience.

The software is capable of building stronger relationships by enabling more sophisticated conversations. The new version includes virtual travel, museum exhibit tours, and the capability to record memories to send to people.

The hardware improvements include a higher-quality microphone, better screen, and easier tablet charging.

The tech firm also developed a free companion app for loved ones, friends, and caregivers to take an active role in care circles for seniors. Video calls, video and image messaging, and text messaging are available through the app. People can set reminders remotely and get alerts for any changes in the person’s wellbeing.

Over 80% of ElliQ users had at least one person in their care circle using the companion app during beta testing.

Founded in 2016, Intuition Robotics is a tech firm headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel. The company aims to empower older people with proactive digital solutions for health, happiness, social isolation, and loneliness. Investors include Toyota Ventures, Samsung NEXT, iRobot, OurCrowd, Terra Ventures, and other venture capital firms.