In this ongoing series, we're sharing tips, advice, and insights from real entrepreneurs who are out there doing business battle on a daily basis. (Responses have been edited and condensed for clarity.)

Ted Fischer is the co-founder and CEO of Ageless innovation, a company with a mission to combat some of the most pressing challenges facing seniors, including social isolation, loneliness and cognitive decline. “We do this by providing joy, fun and happiness to improve the quality of life,” says Fischer.

“We believe play is a basic human need for people of all ages,” he explains. “It can foster essential social connections, improve health and emotional well-being, and bring joy as we live and age together – all of which ultimately help to combat the larger health epidemic of loneliness and social isolation.” The company has developed an award-winning line of animatronics Cheers to all pets and companion games and partnered with AARP to Reach Out And Play Initiative, which aims to bring people of all ages together through board game events. Their “Pets for Vets” program with Capital Caring Health has donated animatronic pets to veterans nationwide.

Connected: After a life-changing experience, this founder discovered the power of gratitude. Now she and her co-founder husband want to spread positivity in classrooms — for free.

Fischer says his inspiration and drive comes from his grandmother, Claire, whom he credits as his biggest champion. “When she was diagnosed with progressive dementia, my family and I saw firsthand that laughter and play were essential components of her care,” he says. “It became increasingly clear that play was not a 'nice to have' – it was an essential part of helping him live and age gracefully – and it has become my life's mission to try and make play accessible to all. My grandmother never stopped her laughter was and continues to be a driving force behind the Joy for All brand.”

Fischer tells about recent research which reveals that nearly 25% of adults over 65 are socially isolated and that loneliness can cause serious health problems such as obesity, arthritis, high blood pressure and depression. In 2023, US surgeon general Dr. Vivek Murthy released one advisory detailing the devastating impact of what he called the “epidemic of loneliness and isolation” in the United States.

Social interactions are scientifically proven ways to combat declining physical and mental health, and here Fischer shares strategies we can all use to reconnect and revitalize the lives of our loved ones.

• Attend a Come and Play Board Game Event: People of all ages gather and celebrate the adults in their lives, especially those who seek social interaction, playful experiences, and fun. Participants have described the events as “fantastic”, “a lot of fun” and “full of laughter”. There are dozens of events already on the list for 2024, and hundreds more on the horizon. Anyone can find a game night event nearby – or consider hosting their own! – in aarp.org/agelessplay.

• Companionship is key: Built on the idea that older adults were looking for interactive companionship, we created a collection of animatronic pets designed to look, sound and feel like real pets, without the responsibility and hassles of pet ownership. Results from clinical studies have shown that the joy of all companion pets can improve the well-being, sense of purpose and quality of life of individuals with dementia; they have also proven to show a significant reduction in social isolation and loneliness in the elderly. They are a great option for those looking for companionship and connection. You can learn more and get a companion animal for yourself or for a loved one at joyforall.com.

• Get a game: Along with Hasbro, in recent times reimagined classic gaming properties, including Game of Life Generations, Scrabble Bingo, and Trivial Pursuit Generations, to feature easy-to-grab game pieces, increased font sizes, and trivia and references that cater to players of all ages. New games aim to facilitate intergenerational connection, stimulate conversation and enhance quality of life for older adults, making it easier than ever for older adults to connect meaningfully with family members, friends and peers.

Connected: Why this entrepreneur dedicated her life's work to helping seniors enjoy fulfilling lives