Silicon Valley for the Octogenarian Set

Boston not only has a high rate of people over 55 starting companies; it’s also working hard to become the Silicon Valley for tech aimed at older people. Home to MIT’s celebrated AgeLab, the area has spawned a cluster of age-tech startups launching products like wireless headphones (Eversound) and virtual reality headsets (Rendever) that are optimized for seniors. In June, Amazon bought Somerville-based PillPack, which helps those who are on several medications, for close to $1 billion. Besides its big push in biotech, Boston also ranks first in the nation as a place to start social ventures, according to a 2017 report from Halcyon. Perhaps most gratifying, Boston this year outpaced New York for venture investment. Now it’s second only to you-know-where.