Of course, in this case, the older folks are talking with AI characters who are not real.

Pitching talking to nonexistent people as a fix for dementia, as opposed to the problem you're trying to solve, is, uh, innovative. Among other things.

As a complimentary service, it is accessible to anyone with a landline or mobile phone and bridges the technological divide by not requiring an internet connection or even a computer. Critically, this promotes equitable access to cutting-edge technology that can benefit older Americans.

Kind of seems like actually providing the things people can't readily access would be more valuable than lotus-eating-as-a-service, but I guess that's why I'm not pulling down big VC bucks.

For concerned family members and friends, the service can call individuals on certain days and times to check in on them and provide telephone-based companionship.

"concerned"

The company has 60 people.

Who could actually talk to the older Americans in question, but are instead tasked with simulating conversations for them instead.

Look, I'm not going to pretend I call my relatives as often as I ought to. But I truly cannot imagine being one of those 60 people. I can't put myself in the mindset of someone who would want this job, who would want this effort to have been a part of their life and career.