Technology Hub

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine are challenging the misconception that older adults are resistant to technology, developing clinical innovations and fostering health technology collaborations with Cornell University and Cornell Tech.

"Technology is increasingly being considered as a solution for the support needs of aging adults."

— Sara J. Czaja, Ph.D.
Gladys and Roland Harriman Professor of Medicine and Director of the Center on Aging and Behavioral Research

Center for Research and Education on Aging and Technology Enhancement (CREATE)

The CREATE program aims to ensure technology systems are accessible and beneficial for older adults. This includes the development of PRISM (Personal Reminder Information and Social Management System), a software designed to reduce loneliness and increase social support among older adults at risk of social isolation. The project, which has shown significant positive impacts in a study involving 300 adults aged 65 to 98, emphasizes user-friendly design, including readable fonts and a buddy tab for maintaining social connections. PRISM also supports family caregivers, through technology-enabled programs and services. Currently, CREATE researchers are exploring the potential of advances in artificial intelligence and virtual reality to improve the health and quality of life of older people.

Enhancing Neurocognitive Health, Abilities, Networks and Community Engagement (ENHANCE)

From the ENHANCE Center, novel technology solutions are emerging with the input of older adults, their care partners, and community stakeholders. In 2019 Weill Cornell Medicine received a significant grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research to establish a center dedicated to developing technologies aimed at aiding older adults with cognitive impairments (CIs). The ENHANCE program specifically targets older adults aged 60 and above who are dealing with mild cognitive impairments, as well as CIs resulting from stroke and traumatic brain injuries. By including caregivers in the research, the program aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by this demographic, thereby improving their quality of life and reducing the caregiving burden. 

“Cognitive impairment can have many causes, including traumatic brain injury and stroke. Our center strives to develop new, cutting-edge technologies to help older adults living with cognitive impairment live independently and continue to meaningfully engage with their community."

— Walter R. Boot, Ph.D. 
Professor of Psychology in Medicine within the Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine

HealthNext Summit

Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine clinicians and researchers support the annual HealthNext Summit at Cornell Tech to offer real-world expertise to thought leaders in health technology innovation, including stakeholders from academia, industry and government.

Collaborate with Us

Please contact us with new ideas for collaboration by emailing Lilla Brody. Sign up for our mailing list to receive Aging & Technology updates from our Division. Learn how you can support our new initiatives here.