SAGE Lab Research Featured: School of Public Health Joins $4.1 Million Project to Create AI-Powered Communication Device

A research team led by Dr. Junhyoung “Paul” Kim and Dr. Marcia Ory has joined a $4.1 million collaborative project aimed at revolutionizing communication for older adults. This initiative, spearheaded by the Texas A&M University School of Public Health, focuses on developing an innovative, AI-powered device designed to bridge the communication gap for seniors, effectively reducing social isolation and improving their overall quality of life.

In this project, Dr. Junhyoung “Paul” Kim and Dr. Marcia Ory are playing a pivotal role in analyzing how older adults interact with AI technologies in their daily lives. By leveraging their combined expertise in health behavior and aging, the researchers aim to design user-friendly interfaces that prioritize accessibility and personalization. This AI-driven solution is intended to support older adults, including those experiencing mild cognitive decline, by facilitating more seamless and meaningful connections with their caregivers and the community. This research represents a significant milestone in digital healthcare, offering a scalable solution to address the growing digital divide among the aging population.

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Photo Credit: Texas A&M University School of Public Health

Published on May 20, 2026 | By Ann Kellett, PhD, Texas A&M University School of Public Health