Episode 7:6 Sheri Rose From Thrive Center Gives Priceless Advice for Entrepreneurs Entering the Aging Care Ecosystem

The CEO and Executive Director of Thrive Center talks about the world’s first and only non-profit devoted to promoting healthy aging with technological innovations and specialized educational programs, and the technologies changing the lives of older adults. 

About Sheri

Sheri Rose is the CEO and Executive Director of the Thrive Center, a nonprofit innovation center focused on wellness and aging. She is also a partner at Commonwealth Leverage LLC, a healthcare professional consulting firm. Sheri previously held positions with AT&T, as Director of Sales & Regulatory. She serves on the Executive Board of the Women’s Political Council of Louisville and on the board of New Directions Housing Authority.

Sheri was named by Louisville Business First as “Top 20 People to Know in Aging” and was recognized by HealthTech Magazine as a woman to know in health IT. Sheri holds a B.A and M.Ed. in Psychology from the University of Louisville.

Key Takeaways

• The smart home is the focal point of the Thrive Center, showcasing various technologies such as smart appliances in a functional kitchen, voice applications, and sensors for non-intrusive motion detection.
• Collaborative ventures include partnerships with the AARP AgeTech Collaborative™, the National Institute of Aging and the (CABHI) Centre for Aging Brain Health Innovation in Canada.
• Thrive helps technology companies from Canada, Europe and Israel navigate the U.S. regulatory climate, including FDA approval and Medicaid/Medicare procedures.
• The biggest mistake startups make is not understanding the market. Senior living communities operate on slim margins. Entrepreneurs should develop solutions that drive operational efficiencies or additional revenue streams and can scale globally.