GrandPad

Think about how much easier your daily life is with a smartphone. In seconds, you can check your bank balance, order groceries, book a doctor’s appointment, or connect with loved ones. Now imagine being locked out of that convenience—forced to rely on outdated, time-consuming methods for even the simplest tasks. This is the reality for millions of seniors who are left out of the digital world—not because they don’t want to engage, but because modern technology isn’t as comfortable, intuitive, or approachable as it should be.

Scott Lien witnessed this firsthand when his aging mother struggled with modern devices. As the world advanced around her, she became increasingly disconnected simply because traditional technology wasn’t designed with her ease of use in mind.

Determined to change this, Lien and his son, Isaac Lien, founded GrandPad—a company dedicated to making technology simple, safe, and accessible for seniors.

GrandPad’s flagship product, also called GrandPad, is an all-in-one tablet and phone solution designed specifically for seniors who have been left out of today’s digital conveniences. Unlike traditional smartphones and tablets, which can be frustratingly complex, GrandPad prioritizes simplicity. It features an intuitive interface, easy navigation, and built-in security, making technology approachable rather than overwhelming.

“Our 90-90 rule is central to GrandPad’s design: the device can be set up with minimal effort, using only familiar language, and with zero complexity,” says Scott Lien, CEO and co-founder of GrandPad. The “90/90 rule” states that a 90-year-old should be able to confidently use the device within 90 seconds. It’s ideal for seniors who struggle with newer technology, offering peace of mind to both users and their loved ones.

Unlike most smart devices that require Wi-Fi setup, GrandPad can be connected via 4G LTE or Wi-Fi, ensuring seniors stay connected without the need for tech-savvy troubleshooting. This connectivity is more than just a convenience—it’s a lifeline. During the California wildfires, when power and internet outages left many seniors stranded, GrandPad users remained connected to emergency alerts, loved ones, and first responders, demonstrating the real-world impact of accessibility-driven technology.
Beyond staying connected, GrandPad enhances seniors’ daily lives. Pre-installed apps allow users to make video calls, send messages, browse photos, listen to music, and play games designed to keep their minds engaged. A large, easy-to-read interface ensures effortless navigation, even for those with visual impairments. Recognizing seniors’ unique needs, GrandPad regularly collaborates with their Grand Advisors—a panel of people aged 80+ who provide user feedback to ensure every feature is truly intuitive.

One of GrandPad’s most innovative features is Grandie Chat, an AI-powered voice assistant specifically designed for seniors, including those with dementia or cognitive impairments. Unlike generic voice assistants, Grandie Chat is patient, engaging, and built for smooth, frustration-free conversations in 57 languages. For seniors like John, a 90-year-old retired doctor with vision loss, Grandie Chat provides an essential way to interact with technology without the barriers of touchscreens and complex menus.

Beyond Technology: Addressing Loneliness and Isolation

The company’s mission goes beyond just selling a device—it’s committed to reconnecting seniors with the world. One of the biggest challenges older adults face today is loneliness, a growing public health crisis. Studies show that over 40% of seniors experience chronic loneliness, which can have the same negative health impact as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. This isolation only worsened during the pandemic, making the need for meaningful human connection more urgent than ever.

To address this, GrandPad launched GrandPad Connections, a program where trained senior volunteers make weekly social calls to isolated older adults. These 30- to 45-minute conversations provide emotional support and companionship, fostering a much-needed sense of community. More than just casual chats, these calls are structured to encourage real engagement, helping seniors feel heard, valued, and connected.

To measure the program’s impact, GrandPad uses the UCLA Loneliness Assessment, a standardized tool for gauging loneliness levels. The results are clear: 58% of seniors reported feeling less lonely after 90 days, and that number rises to 83% after nine months. Both the seniors receiving calls and the volunteers making them report significant improvements in their emotional well-being. It’s a simple yet powerful solution—no complex apps, no learning curve, just a ringing phone and a friendly voice.

For most of us, digital technology is second nature— we barely think about how much we rely on it. But for seniors, being excluded from this ecosystem isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a daily struggle. GrandPad is changing that by making technology not just accessible, but empowering. More than a tablet, it’s a bridge to a world that should include everyone, regardless of age.