SOULMATE
01. Introduction
The SOULMATE project addressed the diverse travel needs and preferences of older adults to ensure active, healthy, and independent living through secure and flexible mobility solutions. By integrating multiple technologies, SOULMATE supports users with route planning, safety during trips, and adaptive routing. The solution evolved based on user needs and is co-created with end-users.
02. Summary of project aims and objectives
The primary goal of the SOULMATE project was to develop a digital application that enhances mobility and independence for older adults. It focuses on training routes, ensuring safety during trips and offering flexible navigation support. SOULMATE adapts to individual user needs, considering the heterogeneity of the ageing population. Through co-creation, the project aimed to deliver a user-centred solution validated through extensive testing in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Austria.
03. Product development and key features
Product Name: Soulmate
Product Type: Digital application
Key features:
Mobility support tailored to older adults' needs
Route training, safety features, and adaptive navigation
Real-time assistance through familiar individuals (coaches)
Integration of three existing technologies:
- Viamigo: Monitors travel and provides real-time support
- Ways4All: Active navigation for visually impaired users
- Memoride: Virtual cycling and route practice
User involvement in development through co-creation
Flexible and adaptable to users' evolving mobility needs
Launch Year:
- Within the next year
Achievements:
- National VCÖ Mobility Prize in Austria (2021) for Elderly Mobility
- Developed a functional prototype with user-tested features
04. Partners
Number of Partners: 10
- ABEONA consult BVBA, SME, Belgium (Coordinator)
- Activ84Health NV, SME, Belgium
- HappyAging LifeTech Valley VZW, End-user, Belgium
- Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, R&D, The Netherlands
- Roessingh Research and Development B.V., SME, The Netherlands
- Coöperatie Slimmer Leven 2020 U.A., End-user, The Netherlands
- FH Joanneum Gesellschaft mbH, R&D, Austria
- c.c.com Moser GmbH, SME, Austria
- FRAISS – IT Consulting & Mediendesign e.U., SME, Austria
- GEFAS STEIERMARK, End-user, Austria
05. Impact of participating in the AAL Project
Key takeaways
- Accelerated product development through co-creation
- Increased visibility and reputation through AAL support
- Strengthened business-oriented mindset, especially through AAL2Business
Impacts on partners
- Formation of a joint venture involving ABEONA consult, FH Joanneum, and FRAISS
- Positive reception and increased visibility in Austria due to national recognition
- Valuable insights into diverse market demands across EU countries
06. Main learnings from developing a solution through AAL
Technological advancements:
- Integration of three mobility support tools into a cohesive platform
- Adaptation of the system to accommodate varying user needs
User insights:
- Co-creation process was essential for identifying essential features
- The importance of adaptive functionalities to accommodate individual preferences
Organisational impact:
- Enhanced business skills through AAL2Business activities
- Gained credibility and investor confidence due to structured business planning
- Expanded knowledge of older adults' mobility challenges
07. Impact on networking and collaboration
Networking impact
- Created new partnerships across Belgium, the Netherlands, and Austria
- Strengthened connections with end-user organisations and research institutions
Collaboration:
- Close cooperation between commercial and research partners
- Formation of a joint venture to commercialise the SOULMATE solution
- Successful coordination between partners with complementary expertise
08. Perceived benefits of participating in AAL Support Actions
AAL2Business participation
- Enhanced pitching skills and business model development
- Improved understanding of market dynamics and customer needs
AAL Forum participation:
- Shared experiences with similar projects
- Constructive feedback on project pitches and market strategies
09. How AAL supported the project in solution development and market adoption
User involvement:
- Extensive user testing and co-creation for feature prioritisation
- Real-world insights from end-user organisations in three countries
Product complexity reduction:
- Streamlined functionalities to maintain usability
- Focus on core services for increased market relevance
Awareness and support:
- National and international exposure through awards and AAL endorsement
- Guidance on business planning and commercialisation strategies
10. Challenges encountered
Commercial and market barriers:
- Variability in healthcare requirements across countries
- Differences in user expectations and service demands
Financial challenges:
- Need for additional investment to finalise the product
- Difficulty in finding co-investors for market launch
How AAL helped:
- Provided insights into realistic business planning
- Facilitated market entry strategies through networking
11. Actions needed to launch product
Market development:
- Expand the prototype into a fully market-ready product
- Secure partnerships with organisations in Austria and beyond
Product proof:
- Validate product features through extended pilot studies
- Ensure compliance with country-specific mobility regulations
Funding and support:
- Seek investment to complete development and start commercialisation
- Form strategic alliances with stakeholders in elderly mobility
12. Next steps
End-users:
- Primary target: older adults seeking increased mobility
- Secondary target: caregivers who wish to support independent travel
Expected impact on end-users:
- Enhanced quality of life through safe and independent mobility
- Increased peace of mind for family members and caregivers
Target paying customers:
- Care organisations, municipalities and technology partners
- Focus on business-to-business-to-consumer (B2B2C) models
Growth projections:
- Establish joint venture to facilitate commercialisation
- Expand into Austria as the primary market, with potential for wider EU reach
- Engage with mobility solution providers to expand the customer base