Artificial Intelligence (AI) is often seen as a futuristic innovation, but the truth is, it has been quietly shaping our daily lives for years. While it may feel like a recent phenomenon, AI is already embedded in many of the tools and technologies we rely on—often without us even realizing it.
AI’s presence is far more common than most people think. For example, when Netflix suggests a new movie for you, it’s using AI. Or when you pull up Google maps on your phone to see real time traffic information, you’re using AI. And, according to a Salesforce survey, only 33% of people think that they use AI, but, in reality, over 77% use an AI-powered service or device.
One could break the AI powered assistants into two categories – there are the virtual voice activated digital assistants – like Siri (Apple devices), Google Assistant (Android and Google devices), Alexa (Amazon), and Bixby (Samsung). These are embedded into your smartphones and smart devices and are used for voice commands and answering simple questions. Most people don’t even think of them as AI, but they are.
Then there are the general-purpose AI assistants. Google has Gemini and Microsoft has CoPilot integrated into Window and Microsoft 365. And I think we all have heard of one of the most talked about tools – Chat GPT.
Seniors, especially retired seniors, may be hesitant to even start exploring the benefits of using AI. And although this is far from being a comprehensive tutorial on AI for seniors, there are some fun ways that seniors can begin their AI exploration journey.
So today, I’d like to share some fun ways seniors can “dip their toes in the AI water” and suggest five fun or useful ways seniors can begin to use AI.
- Memory games or mental exercises. We all know that seniors should exercise – both their bodies and their brains – to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Seniors can access, and even design custom memory games or mental exercises with AI. Or seniors can use an AI assistant to find other resources – even podcasts – that provide opportunities to keep sharp. For example I asked, “please create a memory game for seniors that can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.” And Chat GPT created the “Memory Lane” game for me.
- Fun with grandchildren. A common use for AI is help with writing. Seniors who are retired no longer need AI to help with term papers or business proposals, but a fun way to use AI is to help them create fun experiences with their grandchildren. AI can help create personalized bedtime stories, special birthday messages, or even elaborate treasure hunts! An example would be, “Please create a personalized bedtime story for Lily, who is 7 years old, and loves cheer and dancing. She lives in a Chicago suburb and has one brother, Luca, who is 10. Her best friend is Caroline.” Chat GPT created a wonderful story, “Lily and the Starlight Cheer” for my granddaughter.
- Lifelong learning. Many people have discovered the joy of lifelong learning as a senior. Seniors now have the time to explore new topics without the pressure of exams or grades. With a simple command of “teach me,” seniors can learn new skills or hobbies with personalized lessons and step by step instructions. An example would be, “teach me about Spain’s Golden Age.”
- AI can be your personal handyperson. I learned how to change the filter in my refrigerator by asking AI! It told me the make and model I needed and walked me through how to do it. AI provides tutorials to help fix many things in your home.
- Medication management. On a more serious note, AI devices and apps can provide health monitoring and help with medication management – they remind people to take their medication and even track the dosage. They can help avoid drug interactions and improve adherence. Some can keep your medical and medication history, and doctor appointments in one place.
As technology advances, the possibilities for AI assisted care for seniors increase. There are currently AI robots that monitor some health markers for seniors who live alone to help remotely manage care. And there are voice conversation services where seniors can receive daily telephone calls from an AI powered companion that checks in on the senior and then reports back to a caregiver.
As I stated, this is not meant to be a fulsome tutorial on AI – just a few ideas that seniors may enjoy exploring. If you are interested in learning more – perhaps ask AI about AI!