Fast-moving artificial intelligence (AI) technology and its use is the current hot topic in the workplace and households. People everywhere, including seniors, are learning more about AI and its impact as it infiltrates everything from communications to transportation.

Somewhere between the hype and confusion, a real opportunity exists for seniors to learn more about how AI can boost independence and potentially make everyday tasks easier to manage.

Despite assumptions that seniors or older adults may not know or be interested in AI, studies show a strong curiosity and existing knowledge about the technology. For seniors who may still hope to become more comfortable with AI, trusted organizations like AARP and the NCOA offer clear direction and ideas for learning more.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a scientific and technical field of study that has existed for decades, formally named in the 1950s. AI systems involve computers and models that are designed to mirror human abilities and thinking. In short, machines perform tasks that humans normally do. For seniors and the disabled, this field is particularly exciting as new developments and devices promise to transform ideas of independence.

Today, AI is embedded more and more in the tools used online and in the household. Here are just a few examples of how AI has been living alongside humans for years.

• Voice activated and communication tools like Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa are just a couple of examples of those available on the market. Caregivers and seniors can use smartphones or other devices to ask for help, call family, set reminders, or do research.
  
• AI plays an important role in making homes more efficient or smarter. From automating lighting to monitoring activities both inside and outside the house, devices can replace the small tasks that may feel like a burden to an older adult.
• Cars and transportation have adopted smart technologies, from small details to self-driving cars.
• No field remains untouched. Science, medicine, finance, energy, banking, entertainment, and more have all found greater efficiencies and ongoing development that is transforming research and work.

With so much chatter about AI in the news, on social media, and around the dinner table, feeling confused or uncertain about AI is natural. Seniors still have a healthy interest in AI as revealed in a University of Chicago study. Conducted by AARP and NORC, the study revealed that 46% of Americans 50 and older had some knowledge of AI. Only 9% had no knowledge about it all, with another 17% reported knowing a lot about AI.

No matter your level of knowledge, here are a few key facts to remember:

• This technology is fast-moving, and many companies are investing billions of dollars into the future of AI.
• Anyone can learn more about AI, even older adults and the elderly.
• Bad actors and scammers online who have targeted seniors are also using AI to find new ways to defraud the vulnerable.
• AI technology isn’t perfect. Information and images may contain errors or wrong results that can create confusion. This has occurred in mainstream media and news reporting.

Seniors and caregivers are discovering more ways of incorporating AI into daily living routines, especially when it comes to managing healthcare. Let’s look at practical, real-world examples of how AI can benefit seniors and caregivers.

Phones, earbuds, headsets, and other devices make it easy to communicate without having to use your hands or navigate screens. They also free up movement in case a senior needs their hands or arms to use canes, walkers, or any other stabilizing equipment.

Technology has made managing medications much easier for seniors and caregivers by setting reminders, schedules, alerts, and more. Many companies have introduced tools on the market, so a wide range exists, especially when it comes to helping seniors remember to take medications and connect caregivers with what’s happening with their loved ones’ medicines.

Automatic speech recognition (ASR) and tools that create captions or describe images are immensely critical for the hearing or visually impaired senior. This technology for seniors is rapidly helping the disabled become more independent.

Wearable devices are a powerful, yet easy way for seniors and families to track and detect issues before they become bigger problems. A smart watch or bracelet, a wearable neck monitor can all track everything from sleep patterns to blood pressure. Caregivers who live outside of the home can track vital signs or detect falls.

Check out some additional caregiving tips here.

As AI continues to mature, the future is filled with promising developments. The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in 2024 revealed amazing tools and technology specifically targeting older adults. These included glasses with hearing support, lighting that adjusts to prevent falls, and robots designed to offer companionship to those living alone.

Living online or using AI creates more risk for everyone. For seniors, however, who are specifically targeted by many scammers, the risk may increase if they are unaware about how to stay safe from predators. Seniors and caregivers need to use all technology with a cautious eye. Following a few best practices can help families stay safe while enjoying the benefits of AI.

• Remain skeptical – When looking at images, look closely. Do you see irregularities in a figure or hand? Are there subtle duplicates or misplaced items? Does an image, audio, or video feel shocking or unbelievable? Most likely, if something doesn’t feel right, the image or text may be false.

• Rely on another opinion – Ask a close friend, caregiver, or family member if you receive a call or email or online request that you’re not sure is valid. Trust your instinct and check sources if possible.

• Ask for help – Audio, voices, and emails can look genuine when, really, they are imitating the original. If you’re unsure, ask the caller for a piece of information only you know to verify if you’re involved in a scam. Avoid clicking on any suspicious email or text links, especially if they feel threatening or are requesting personal information.

• Attend a class – Local libraries, community colleges, and trust organizations like AARP are offering basic AI classes. Find an in-person or online session and learn more about the technology and risks involved.

AI is changing what getting older truly means. Whether a senior is experiencing a decline in mental health or recovering from surgery, AI offers ways for seniors to manage small tasks independently, communicate vital information to loved ones, or find companionship and entertainment. With many options for learning AI while remaining safe from scammers, seniors can feel confident navigating this new field and learning new ways to live independently. 

• "4 Ways AI Tools Can Help Caregivers and Seniors." MassCareLink, 2024, www.masscarelink.org/4-ways-ai-tools-can-help-caregivers-and-seniors/.
• AI for Older Adults. Senior Planet, seniorplanet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/AI-Guide-for-Older-Adults_Dig.pdf.
• "Older Adults Express Mixed Views on Artificial Intelligence." NORC at the University of Chicago, 2023, www.norc.org/research/library/older-adults-express-mixed-views-artificial-intelligence.html.