future of care

In this first episode of the Future of Eye Care series, we sit down with the head of VSP's Global Innovation Center, Ruth Yomtoubian to discuss the future of eye care and how innovation happens.

Key Takeaways:

1. Innovation isn't just about disruption and the future. True innovation respects the past, understands the presents, and seeks to solve the problems of the future.
2. Two key trends Ruth is following outside of eyecare that likely will impact eye care:
   1. Hybrid care - the best of in person and virtual in a single experience (e.g. Forward Care, Carbon Health, Eden)
   2. Future of Benefits (e.g. upskilling, maternal care, leisure/ travel benefits, mental health)
3. Innovation often starts with solving a single problem for a small group that leads to noticeable impacts for larger populations. Don't overlook small opportunities to innovate and create large wins within your business.
4. Spatial computing will also impact eye care and the patient consumer's awareness of the importance of eye and vision care.
5. Innovation is truly about setting yourself up for the future. Generative AI is a technology that will dramatically impact health care and eye care. In many ways, small businesses have the opportunity to leverage these easier than larger corporations. Considerations for generative AI include data readiness and "human in the loop" operation. 
6. Five innovation questions to ask yourself:
   1. Can you create value in an ambiguous environment?
   2. Do you go beyond challenging the status quo?
   3. Do you get in the trenches? 
   4. Do you truly believe that ideas come from anywhere?
   5. Do you know yourself?

What Ruth is Reading:

• Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia MD
• Move Fast and Fix Things by Anne Morriss, Frances Frei

Additional Resources:

• VSP Global Innovation Center LinkedIn Page
• VSP Global Innovation Center page
• Future of Benefits report
• Future of Generative AI in Healthcare report
• Futurist Reports page
• Emerging Tech Accessibility Guide
• Hybrid Care Insights Reel
• SXSW 2024 Official Panel: Future Eye: 10 Vision Trends That Will Transform Healthcare

In this thought-provoking episode, host Zannat Reza explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and aging. Joined by experts Dr. Charlene Chu, assistant professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Nursing, and Stephen Johnston, founder of Fordcastle & Looking Forward, they delve into the practical applications of AI in improving the lives of older adults. Their expert insights highlight how AI can enhance healthcare delivery, from predicting conditions and managing medications to enabling independent living and international implementation and innovation. 

However, the discussion doesn't shy away from the pitfalls, exploring how ageism creeps into the digital world, and what can be done to make sure AI is inclusive and as beneficial to older adults as it promises to be. We explore the ethical considerations of AI as well, the concept of digital resignation and consequences of unregulated AI data collection, who owns the data, controls it, and benefits from it.  Through this engaging conversation, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the transformative power of AI and the importance of responsible and inclusive implementation.

Chapter Timestamps: 

(00:00:00) Introduction 

Zannat introduces the episode’s themes - exploring the potential & pitfalls of AI in the aging space. 

(00:01:43) Exploring the Potential of AI in Aging 

Zannat welcomes expert Dr. Charlene Chu, who defines AI and explains how it can revolutionize aging through personalized care, remote monitoring, and caregiver support. 

(00:04:24) Addressing Ageism and Biases in AI for Aging 

Continuing the conversation, Zannat and Charlene discuss digital ageism; how it can influence design, implementation, and availability of the types of technology. They also highlight the need for a more inclusive design and testing process. 

(00:08:23) Data Privacy and Smart Home Technology 

Smart home tech has the potential to be revolutionary for independent living, but the data collection that stems from it raises privacy concerns. Charlene defines digital resignation, and brings up the issue of who has access to data for decision making. 

(00:10:37) The Importance of Data Ownership and Transparency 

Zannat introduces Stephen Johnston, founder of Fordcastle, to discuss critical issues of data ownership, transparency, and benefit-sharing in AI data collection. They highlight how tech companies have profited from user data without transparency or user benefit.  

(00:12:59) AI for Caregiving and Better Outcomes 

Stephen shares real-world examples of AI solutions in caregiving and better care outcomes. He discusses how AI can enhance caregiving efficiency, improve care quality, and empower caregivers with cutting-edge insights and prompts. 

(00:14:44) AI Solutions in the Aging Space 

Zannat highlights different innovative companies like Care Daily, care.coach, and Winter Light Labs that are leveraging AI through apps to enhance caregiving, communication, and health outcomes. 

(00:22:30) Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions  

Charlene & Stephen answer the final 2 future of aging questions we ask all our guests. 

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (01:43) - Exploring the Potential of AI in Aging
• (04:24) - Addressing Ageism and Biases in AI for Aging
• (08:23) - Data Privacy and Smart Home Technology
• (10:37) - The Importance of Data Ownership and Transparency
• (12:59) - AI for Caregiving and Better Outcomes
• (14:44) - AI Solutions in the Aging Space
• (22:30) - Future of Aging: The Final 2 Questions