Key learnings from our workshop: "What is a good conversation with older adults?"

Authentic persona: speak naturally without patronizing "elder speak" or forced superlatives ("Wonderful!").

Single questions: ask one question at a time and introduce pauses after validation so calls feel like a natural conversation, not an interrogation.

Senior-led: let seniors steer the topic; combine laddering and systemic techniques to build trust and avoid repetitive scripts across calls.

Sensitivity to soft cues: catch indirect hints of fatigue or distress ("I've been a bit tired") and gently encourage connecting with real family members or caregivers.

Clear product boundaries: keep "Companion" engagement distinct from healthcare questionnaires, eliminating anxiety-inducing medical memory games.