Challenge: It is clear that the next generation of elders, current baby boomers, will demand technologies that support health care, rather than disease care and can help keep them fit and functioning until the end of life. The average age of the US population is increasing steadily. Over the next 20 years, this change in the age distribution will create an extreme health care burden that is likely to reduce health care quality. If the current health care system is not radically changed to accommodate these changing demographics, the need for health care resources will far outstrip their availability.

Opportunity: By shifting the balance of health care toward individuals in their homes, overall health costs can be decreased by emphasizing prevention and slowing the progress of minor chronic problems toward major ones. By providing information that is timely, accurate and supports state of the art health management, older Americans can stay healthier longer while continuing to live life to the fullest. Such a personal health system can also answer the need of overburdened family caregivers, and be adapted to other settings such as group homes and assisted living facilities

Gap Analysis: There are many universities, funders, and corporations addressing aspects of the need. Will it all come together in time? Where are the gaps? What new paradigms are needed?

Workshop: This Thought Leaders' Workshop will address the many aspects that must be tackled to prevent this health care crisis and provide a favorable economic climate for suppliers to stay the course.