Aging is a natural part of life, but how we age is shaped by more than just genetics. Emotional well-being—our mood, attitude, and social connections—plays a critical role in how we experience our later years. This is especially true for older adults, where their mental and emotional health directly influences their physical health outcomes. At Tellegacy, we understand that positive emotional regulation and a sense of fulfillment can slow down aging and enhance the quality of life, reducing the risk of ailments such as Alzheimer’s disease and Alzheimer’s-related dementias (ADRD).
Studies show that social isolation, emotional stress, and lack of meaningful engagement can contribute to physical and mental health decline in older adults. But by focusing on What Matters—whether that’s relationships, passions, or purpose—we can dramatically improve both mental health and physical well-being. This is where Tellegacy is making a significant difference with the help of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies designed to assist in emotional regulation, wellness tracking, and even legacy-building.
The Importance of the 4Ms for Aging Well
Tellegacy applies the 4Ms of the Age-Friendly Health Systems framework, which is a recognized model for improving care for older adults. The 4Ms are:
- What Matters
- Mentation
- Mobility
- Medications
Of these, What Matters holds the greatest importance. Research has shown that focusing on what truly matters to an individual—such as their passions, relationships, and values—has a profound effect on their mental and physical health (Rocco et al., 2019). When older adults focus on what matters, they experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment, which helps them maintain their physical health and emotional well-being.
Tracking and regulating emotional health is key. With this in mind, Tellegacy is creating an AI-powered tool that will help older adults monitor their emotional well-being, track stress, and receive interventions when necessary. This tool will work in tandem with Tellegacy’s intergenerational programs, where older adults share their life stories and connect with younger generations. These programs are vital for reducing isolation and providing a sense of purpose, improving the quality of life for older adults.
AI: A Tool for Emotional Regulation and Health Promotion
At Tellegacy, we are developing an AI tool that acts as both a motivational interviewer and health promoter. This tool will encourage older adults to focus on What Matters most to them, helping them track their emotional health, stay engaged in fulfilling activities, and monitor any changes in their physical or mental health. As they engage in the Tellegacy intergenerational programs, the AI tool will help them feel more connected and supported, while also creating their Legacy Book, a compilation of their life stories.
The AI-powered assistant will empower older adults to make intentional choices that align with what matters to them, and it will track and encourage emotional regulation, social connection, and personal fulfillment. It will serve as a companion that helps older adults stay grounded in their personal values and identity, which is crucial for aging well and managing the challenges that come with it.
The Role of Emotional Regulation in Aging and Longevity
Emotional well-being is crucial for healthy aging. Research shows that people who are able to regulate their emotions, maintain social connections, and stay engaged in meaningful activities live longer, healthier lives (Tomaka et al., 2006). Emotional well-being is linked to better heart health, cognitive function, and immune strength (Jorm et al., 2009). Older adults who focus on their What Matters experience better mental health and are more resilient to stress.
Unfortunately, many older adults face emotional challenges due to societal pressures, isolation, and a lack of support. That’s why AI can be a valuable tool in this circumstance—it can assist in tracking older adult emotional states and provide practical information or interventions to improve emotional regulation. This way, we not only improve the health of older adults but also help them stay connected, engage in meaningful activities, and reduce stress.
Conclusion: Humanizing Healthcare with AI
AI should serve to enhance the human experience, not replace it. Tellegacy’s AI tool is designed to support older adults in emotional regulation, wellness tracking, and fulfillment, while promoting intergenerational connections that create mutual understanding. With this tool, we’re empowering older adults to take control of their emotional health, monitor what matters most to them, and improve their overall quality of life.
We believe that by integrating AI with the 4Ms of the Age-Friendly Health Systems, we can create a future where older adults age well, experience fulfillment, and build lasting legacies. If you’re interested in learning more about our AI tool or partnering with us to improve the lives of older adults, we invite you to connect with us and explore how we can collaborate.
References
- Jorm, A. F., et al. (2009). “Social isolation and loneliness in older people: A review of the evidence.” International Psychogeriatrics, 21(3), 428-437.
- Rocco, T. S., et al. (2019). “The importance of What Matters: Identity and fulfillment as keys to successful aging.” Journal of Aging & Social Policy, 31(4), 294-308.
- Tomaka, J., et al. (2006). “The relation of social isolation, loneliness, and social support to disease outcomes.” American Journal of Health Promotion, 20(3), 124-131.
For more information about Tellegacy and our mission, visit jeremyholloway.com.
