We can all agree that loneliness is among the most heart-wrenching and terrifying feelings a person can experience. It is likely that we have seen our own grandparents experience these emotions regularly. In fact, the Agewell Foundation says that half of the Indian elderly population suffers from loneliness. Shantanu Naidu, a business assistant of industry giant Ratan Tata, aims to reduce this overwhelming feeling in elderly Indian citizens through his startup, GoodFellows.

The startup, which is yet in its beta testing phase, will recruit people under the age of 30 to provide companionship to elders suffering from loneliness. These ‘Grandpals’ will not only help senior citizens with their work such as emails and other administrative work, but also offer them support and company through walks, doctor’s visits, grocery shopping, and more.

Backed by Ratan Tata, GoodFellows will begin commercial operations in January 2022 and will charge users a monthly subscription.

Companionship in later stages of life can be immensely meaningful. To know that someone cares and is there for you when you need them is a magical feeling. With GoodFellows, we hope the elderly citizens of India feel more loved, taken care of, and appreciated.

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