Male and female business people kneeling on the floor at their office with papers scattered around, reviewing proofs

Project Catalyst | The Power of We engages consumers in the innovation process by providing valuable feedback on the functionality and design of products that improve the quality of life for 50-plus consumers — from the time users open the packaging to when they incorporate the technology into their daily lives. With Project Catalyst, AARP has convened the most innovative leaders in the health care industry to launch a pioneering program that gains valuable insights into 50-plus consumer behavior and usage of popular and new-to-market health-tech products.

By putting the consumer at the center of the innovation process, developers are provided with actionable insights into end-user behavior at the front end of ideation and development. This interdisciplinary approach uses empirical research to gain a clearer understanding of 50-plus consumer behavior so that developers can better meet the wants and needs of this underserved population.

Project Catalyst Research Studies

The following is a list of all Project Catalyst research studies to date. This list will be updated as new research is released.

Designing Technology for Caregivers: Understanding What Works and Doesn't - Three pilot studies tested technologies in care coordination, emergency alerting, and in-home aide services. (January 2018)
Americans 50+ Disrupt "Burden" Stereotype by Driving the Economy: The Longevity Economy in Each of the 50 States - Explores the economic impact and contribution of residents ages 50+ across the United States, including in select MSAs. (August 2017)
Caregiving Innovation Frontiers - Explores innovations and technological advances in caregiving designed to improve solutions for America's family caregivers, informal helpers, and care recipients. (June 2017)
Financial Innovation Frontiers - Innovative digital tools, services and products can help to address the financial challenges faced by age 50+ Americans. (April 2017)
Caregivers & Technology: What They Want and Need - A guide for innovators in the caregiving space. (April 2016)
Activity & Sleep Trackers - Older consumers see sleep and activity trackers as helpful in improving their health and managing chronic conditions. (April 2016)
Digital Health Market Opportunities - Highlights the 12 most active investors and tracks early stage investment in the digital health solutions for the 50-plus market. (April 2014)
50+ Consumer Electronics - AARP sponsored research with the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) to spotlight technology needs and wants of people age 50+. (January 2013)