In Senior Tech, Trust Is the Real Innovation

Have you ever wondered why tech adoption rates often lag behind the pace of innovation? Is it a technology gap? Or a “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” situation?" (As a fellow older dog, I never liked that one). But it turns out the solution may not be in the hardware or the software at all.

In other words, maybe the real challenge isn’t the technology but the trust.

Tech companies serving the 55+ market know their products solve a genuine need. They perfect the demo. Their marketing brochure lists all the features. But what’s holding back the end-user or the person in charge of buying?

Your prospects can be skeptical, no doubt. Many have seen technology overpromise and underdeliver. They may have tried an app that was confusing or a device that proved too difficult or frustrating to set up. Maybe they’re worried about privacy, data security or the very real issues of monitoring someone by a device.

But trust is something that has to be earned – and it takes time. The first place to start? Show that you understand their concerns – and their world. You can begin to accomplish this through:

1. Speaking plainly, not in tech jargon. Use their language, not yours.
2. Addressing real worries, like “Will I be able to use this?” and “What happens if I forget how?”
3. Demonstrating empathy for the day-to-day realities of aging, caregiving and trying to hold on - or helping others - to maintain independence.
4. Show and not just tell the positive impact your product can make.

Technology and aging are often seen as the cutting edge of solving all problems, both for the older adult and those who work in the industry. New solutions are launched frequently – apps, sensors, wearables, telehealth tools, AI companions – with each promising to make life easier, safer and more connected.

But what may often get overlooked are the small wins – and in the language that everyone understands, such as “I felt safer walking at night” or “My mom doesn’t feel so alone now.”

We talk about healthcare and senior tech products in terms of innovation and transformation. But maybe the biggest transformation of all is helping someone feel seen, heard and capable. That's when real trust begins.