Vermonters Can Hire Help by the Hour Through New App
In a world where technology is increasingly intertwined with our daily lives, Rustam Sengupta has developed a digital platform that not only addresses a pressing issue but also has the potential to revolutionize the way we care for our elderly and disabled loved ones. Tuktu, a unique app that connects those in need with local service providers, is making waves in Vermont and beyond.
Sengupta's personal experience during the pandemic, where he witnessed his mother's struggle to care for his father with dementia, sparked the idea for Tuktu. He recognized the universal challenge of burnt-out families trying to provide quality care for their loved ones. With a background in renewable energy and entrepreneurship, Sengupta set out to create a solution that would make a real difference.
Tuktu, named after an Inuit word meaning caribou, aims to be a guiding force for those in need of support and companionship. The app allows users to book various services, including rides to appointments, meal prep, house cleaning, and companionship, often for elderly parents or family members with disabilities. The cost is reasonable, ranging from $25 to $40 per hour, with Tuktu taking a modest 15-25% cut of the fee.
What sets Tuktu apart is its use of artificial intelligence to recommend services and match providers with clients. Providers, often college students and recent retirees, undergo a rigorous interview, background check, and training process. This ensures that the services provided are not only high-quality but also safe and reliable.
The epidemic of loneliness and disconnection, highlighted in a 2023 U.S. Surgeon General's report, is a critical issue that Tuktu aims to address. Sengupta believes that community-powered platforms like Tuktu can significantly reduce feelings of isolation and improve the well-being of individuals.
While traditional home-care agencies exist in Vermont, they often operate on a different model, focusing on professional caregivers for more ongoing personal care. Tuktu, however, caters to a wide range of needs, from one-hour companionship to light household tasks and tech support. This flexibility is particularly appealing to those seeking part-time work.
Vermont, with its aging population and community-minded ethos, seems like the perfect fit for Tuktu. An estimated 23% of residents are 65 or older, and more than a quarter live alone, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The state also has a high number of unpaid caregivers, as noted by the AARP. These statistics highlight the growing need for innovative solutions like Tuktu.
Melissa Merkel-Dallaryan, the Center on Rural Innovation's impact investing manager, saw the potential of Tuktu during Sengupta's pitch at LaunchVT. She recognized the lack of similar services in Vermont and the obvious need for a platform that allows easy on-demand bookings, similar to Uber. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for rural areas where access to services can be limited.
Tuktu's provider network is diverse, with a third being college students, a third recent retirees, and the final third having careers in service-oriented professions. The work is designed to be flexible, with providers committing to between six and 16 hours of work per week. This approach not only benefits the users but also provides a valuable part-time opportunity for those looking to earn extra income.
Several Tuktu users and providers in Canada shared their positive experiences with the app. Cheryl Hutchko, a Toronto resident, uses Tuktu to provide occasional help to her 95-year-old mother in a retirement home. She appreciates the reliability and the peace of mind that comes with knowing someone is checking on her mother when she's busy or traveling.
Michael Ip, a social worker at a residential facility for seniors, has been instrumental in helping his residents book Tuktu services. He praises the ease of making multiple appointments and the reasonable pricing. The ability to provide feedback online is another added benefit, ensuring that the service remains responsive to the needs of its users.
Joyce Penner, a 70-year-old piano teacher, has been a Tuktu provider for about nine months. She enjoys serving as a travel companion, driving elderly people to appointments and outings. One of her clients' families even hired her to assist with their gym workouts, showcasing the versatility of the services offered.
In Vermont, Emery Guzyk, a first-year student at UVM, has been working for Tuktu, providing housekeeping, meal prep, and companionship services. She appreciates the flexibility and the opportunity to connect with people she wouldn't normally meet. Susan Wilson, a recently retired resident of Washington County, also found Tuktu through LinkedIn and was impressed by the company's values. She is eager to expand her services as the platform grows.
Gena Grover, a resident of Shelburne, discovered Tuktu when looking for a friendly companion for her 92-year-old mother. She appreciated the ease of signing up and the flexibility of not having to commit to a minimum number of hours per week. Sengupta's personal involvement in providing occasional services left a positive impression on Grover, who recommended the platform to others.
Sengupta's vision for Tuktu goes beyond its digital platform. He sees the mission as a low-tech, community-focused endeavor. By holding information sessions, tabling at conferences, and exploring partnerships with organizations like hospitals and senior living facilities, Sengupta is determined to make Tuktu a success in Vermont and beyond. The app's ability to connect people and provide a sense of community is what makes it truly special.
As Tuktu continues to expand, Sengupta's hope is that positive word of mouth will spread, making the platform a go-to resource for those in need of support and companionship. With its innovative approach and community-driven values, Tuktu is poised to make a significant impact on the lives of Vermonters and others facing similar challenges.
