Written by : Dr. Aishwarya Sarthe
March 15, 2024
The partnership will encompass a range of projects, including mobility-assisting products and cognitive enhancement games.
Gurugram-based Antara Senior Care, has joined forces with the IIT Delhi to develop innovative mobility solutions tailored for senior-specific offerings.
Antara, a provider of lifestyle and lifecare solutions for seniors has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with IIT Delhi to address the challenges faced by the elderly population.
Antara, which is a part of the $4 billion Max Group’s partnership with IIT Delhi aims to address this need by focusing on developing inclusive design solutions that enhance safety, independence, cognition, and communication for seniors.
Further, the collaboration is expected to encompass a range of projects, including mobility-assisting products and cognitive enhancement games.
Sharing insights, Ishaan Khanna, CEO, Antara Assisted Care Services, said, "This collaboration with IIT Delhi will help us leverage technology and R&D to co-create innovative solutions to address seniors' lifestyle and lifecare needs, empowering them to lead a life of dignity and autonomy."
One of the key projects under this collaboration is the development of mobility aids tailored specifically for seniors.
While signing the MOU, Prof Preeti Ranjan Panda, dean, corporate relations, IIT Delhi, said, "Mobility aid products provide physical support and promote independence and confidence, enabling the elderly to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle."
Through extensive research and insights gained from surveys and interviews with elderly individuals, Antara and IIT Delhi aim to design mobility aids that offer intermittent rest options, addressing the unique challenges faced by seniors.
With the increasing life expectancy and size of the elderly population in India, the demand for senior-specific services has grown substantially.
For instance, the government think tank, NITI Aayog, released a comprehensive position paper titled "Senior Care Reforms in India: Reimagining the Senior Care Paradigm" on February 16.
The report aims to address the evolving needs of India’s aging population and create a more robust framework for senior citizens’ well-being.
In addition to policy reforms, various initiatives are underway to support senior citizens' healthcare needs.
Tata AIG General Insurance introduced "Elder Care," a health insurance product tailored exclusively for senior citizens. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden of healthcare expenses for seniors, offering comprehensive coverage and home care services.
Another notable initiative comes from Vesta Elder Care, which introduced the 'Vesta Doctor App,' a digital innovation designed to revolutionize geriatric care.
Furthermore, Vesta Elder Care partnered with the 'Healthians' app to provide quality-assured lab tests to senior citizens from their homes. This collaboration leverages technology to enhance access to healthcare services, offering convenience and reliability to seniors across India.