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What if the solution to elderly loneliness wasn’t more care — but more connection?
That’s the idea behind AIBŌ, the intergenerational platform founded by Solène Declas that matches young people (18–30) with elderly neighbours for paid companionship, friendship, and everyday support.
Inspired by her own grandparents — and the growing gap between generations — Solène set out to solve two problems at once: rising loneliness among older adults, and the lack of flexible, meaningful work for young people. The result is a “buddy” system that works a bit like Rover… but for grandparents.
In this episode, we dive into the human reality behind the stats — from weeks without conversation, to the quiet loss of purpose many older people feel — and how AIBO is building a more connected, joyful alternative.
This is a conversation about loneliness, purpose, dignity, and why intergenerational relationships might be one of the most overlooked solutions in modern society.
In this episode, Georgie and Solène explore:
The hidden loneliness crisis facing elderly people in the UK
Why loneliness is linked to early death and cognitive decline
How AIBO matches young people and older adults based on personality, interests, and life experience
Why companionship can be more powerful than traditional care
How young people are paid to do meaningful, flexible work
The emotional impact of being “needed” again later in life
Why bringing older people back into youth culture matters
Solène’s journey as a first-time founder building a purpose-led startup
Key Takeaways:
Loneliness isn’t just sad — it’s dangerous. It’s been compared to smoking 16 cigarettes a day.
Elderly people don’t just need care — they need connection, purpose, and friendship.
Intergenerational relationships benefit both sides: wisdom flows one way, energy the other.
Young people want flexible, meaningful work — not just bar shifts.
AIBO reframes support as companionship, not dependency.
Community, not institutions, may be the future of ageing well.
Chapters / Timestamps:
00:00 — Meet Solène & the idea behind AIBO
03:40 — The moment that sparked the startup
06:00 — The reality of elderly loneliness
09:00 — Why companionship matters more than care
13:50 — How AIBO works (the buddy system explained)
17:00 — Paying young people for meaningful work
19:30 — Real friendships formed through AIBO
22:00 — Scaling through universities
24:00 — The hardest part of building solo
25:40 — Founder advice: “If you don’t ask, you don’t get”
26:40 — Startup shout-out: Equal Reach
Links & Resources:
Connect with Solène Declas — LinkedIn
