The link between social isolation and health problems among seniors has been well-documented, and the Covid-19 pandemic has only worsened the issue. One startup that is attempting to tackle the problem with a round-the-clock virtual companion providing social support and access to care when needed is care.coach, The company offers a tablet with a virtual avatar that can be used in a couple of different ways to support seniors and others in need, like the developmentally disabled, at home. First, the user can initiate an interaction with the avatar, a puppy or kitten, by tapping its head on the tablet screen, said Victor Wang, founder and CEO of the Millbrae, California-based company, in a phone interview. Historically, this initiated a phone call to the care.coach