A look back: SMARTER LIVES 2026 in Bolzano

On 7 May 2026, the SMARTER LIVES 2026 event took place at Eurac Research in Bolzano. Under the theme ‘Shaping the future: technology and services for a good quality of life in old age’, the event focused on digitalisation, innovation in care and artificial intelligence in the health and social care sectors.

Around 170 participants from the worlds of research, professional practice, business and voluntary work discussed current developments and innovative solutions to the challenges posed by an ageing society. Talks, workshops and company presentations provided a compelling demonstration of how modern technologies can already support older people, their relatives and carers, and of the developments that will shape the future of care.

Particular emphasis was placed on the White Cross’s sensor-based emergency call system. The sensor-based system detects everyday activities and enables a rapid response to emergencies. Relatives and emergency services can be notified automatically, thereby increasing safety and reducing the burden on carers.

Innovative applications of artificial intelligence were also showcased. For example, the start-up XSpline presented a solution that enables realistic 3D models of the heart to be created from medical imaging data, in order to plan medical procedures with greater precision.

As part of the trade fair, 15 companies and organisations presented their products, services and projects in short elevator pitches. Among those taking part were 2PCS, Bucinator, care4you, Cogvis, easierLife, eldate, FAWO, Ladurner Hospitalia, Martin.Care, xtention and Yabe.

The event made it clear that the future of ageing does not lie solely in technological innovations, but above all in successful collaboration between research, practice, business and social engagement.

The event provided a compelling demonstration of how research, practical experience and technology can work together to contribute to a good quality of life in old age. The following original report by Eurac Research offers further insight into the event.

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Ageing well – with heart, mind and high-tech

The “Smarter Lives 2026” conference at Eurac Research in Bolzano focused on how to achieve a good quality of life in old age: leading a self-determined life, with good support and the meaningful use of technology. Around 170 participants from the fields of practice, research and voluntary work exchanged views on new ideas, practical solutions and current developments.

A particular source of inspiration came from Dr Christian Venten, former Head of Geriatrics at Merano Hospital, Director of the hospital’s Memory Clinic and Chair of the KVW’s Senior Citizens’ Committee. He advocates an approach to working with older people that combines medical expertise, a caring approach and an openness to new ideas. It is precisely this combination that is essential to enable older people to live independently and with dignity for as long as possible.

The programme was varied: during the morning, key issues relating to ageing were discussed – such as how to use new technologies, active ageing at home and within the community, and new solutions in care. It became clear that technology is most helpful when it is tailored to people’s real needs.

The event was accompanied by an exhibition featuring 15 organisations and companies. They showcased products, services and ideas designed to support the daily lives of older people and the work of carers. In practical sessions and workshops, participants were also able to get hands-on experience, covering topics such as ‘What does ageing mean?’, ‘Self-care’, ‘Technology in care’ and the ‘EXIA’ exoskeleton.

“Smarter Lives 2026” showed that healthy ageing is a shared responsibility. It requires specialist knowledge, voluntary commitment, new technologies and, above all, a focus on people. The future of ageing therefore lies not solely in technology, but in the right balance between heart, mind and high-tech.