Article written by Marian Monroe.
As loneliness becomes an increasing concern for seniors, Eve Communications has introduced a unique AI-powered solution aimed at tackling this immense issue. Their flagship product, Eve, is an artificial intelligence device cleverly designed as a vintage rotary phone. This product specifically targets older adults, particularly those dealing with loneliness, cognitive decline, or dementia, offering both companionship and support through familiar technology.
At the helm of this innovative project is Ivan Wicksteed, founder and CEO of Eve Communications, who was driven by a personal tragedy to create the product. “My grandmother passed away at 97 after years of loneliness. She outlived her husband and friends and spent the last part of her life feeling incredibly isolated,” Wicksteed shared. Eve was born out of his desire to help people like his grandmother feel connected and cared for, even when they’re physically alone.
How Eve Works: Merging AI and Nostalgia
Unlike the sleek, voice-activated smart speakers that dominate the tech landscape, Eve looks and feels like a traditional rotary phone. This design choice wasn’t random. “During user testing, we found that older adults responded much more positively to the rotary phone,” says Wicksteed. “They already know how to use it, and it gives them a sense of familiarity and comfort.”
Eve functions as a companion that users can talk to, much like a real person. Powered by artificial intelligence, she engages in meaningful conversations and can even be programmed with voices that users recognize, such as a family member or close friend. This personalization makes interactions more comforting, especially for those with memory challenges. Additionally, Eve can initiate daily check-ins, asking how the user is feeling and reporting back to caregivers or family members via text, ensuring that someone is always informed about their loved one’s well-being.
Cognitive Benefits and Emotional Support
Eve isn’t just about companionship—it also plays a role in cognitive health. Wicksteed explains, “Consistent communication and mental stimulation are key to slowing down cognitive decline. Conversations with Eve are designed to keep users engaged and mentally active, which is especially important for those with dementia.”
While Eve Communications is still in the early stages of formal clinical trials, the company tracks progress through metrics like anxiety and loneliness scores, as well as memory assessments. Caregivers have reported that having Eve as part of their care routine provides them with a sense of relief. One early user mentioned that Eve gave her peace of mind knowing her mother had someone to talk to, which allowed her to rest without constant worry.
A Step Back to Move Forward
Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of Eve is how it deliberately moves away from the modern aesthetic that typically defines AI products. Wicksteed acknowledges that their initial design—like popular smart speakers—didn’t resonate with older adults. “People told us they felt uncomfortable talking to a speaker. It felt unnatural to them, and they were concerned it was always listening.”
The pivot to the rotary phone not only made users feel more at ease but also introduced a sense of control. Unlike a speaker, which can feel omnipresent, Eve can be hung up, giving users the ability to end conversations on their terms.
A Nostalgic Connection to Memory Care
The nostalgic design of Eve taps into long-term procedural memory, which tends to remain intact even in the later stages of dementia. For many, the sound of a phone ringing and the act of picking up the receiver are deeply ingrained habits. “Nostalgia plays a huge role in memory care. It helps spark memories and create a sense of comfort,” Wicksteed explains.
By combining this nostalgic element with cutting-edge AI technology, Eve offers a bridge between the past and the future—giving seniors a way to connect with the present while feeling anchored in a familiar part of their past.
What’s Next for Eve Communications?
Looking ahead, Eve Communications has ambitious plans to expand the product’s capabilities and reach. The company is exploring potential partnerships with healthcare providers and senior living facilities to make Eve more accessible to a wider audience. Wicksteed also sees opportunities to expand Eve’s use beyond dementia care, with potential applications in broader cognitive health and mental wellness fields.
As the world grapples with an aging population and the increasing need for personalized care, Eve is emerging as a timely solution. It not only provides companionship for those who need it most but also offers a powerful tool in the fight against cognitive decline. In a space often dominated by sterile, impersonal technology, Eve stands out by offering something refreshingly human.
For more information on Eve Communications and its innovative approach to senior care, visit www.iameve.ai.