Have you heard the buzz about Artificial Intelligence (AI)?  AI is no longer a futuristic concept. It’s here, and it’s transforming the way we live, work, and connect. For older adults, AI offers a wealth of opportunities to enhance daily life, from simplifying tasks to improving health and staying connected with loved ones. In fact, you may already be using AI in your life but not even know it!

So, understanding AI and navigating its tools is very new and changing rapidly.  This can make it feel overwhelming. This post seeks to help older adults start to become more “digital savvy” by exploring AI tools tailored to their needs, offering online safety tips, and pointing to reputable resources for further learning.

AI Tools for Seniors and Baby Boomers

AI tools are generally designed to make life easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Here are some that older adults might find particularly useful for their aging in place journey:

Voice Assistants: Devices like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri use AI. They can help with reminders, weather updates, and even controlling smart home devices. For example, Alexa’s “Care Hub” allows family members to monitor elderly relatives and receive alerts when assistance is needed.

Health Monitoring Devices: AI-powered wearables like the Apple Watch or Fitbit track vital signs, detect falls, and send emergency alerts. These tools provide peace of mind for both seniors and their families.

AI Companions Tools like ElliQ and Sensi.AI act as virtual companions, offering conversation, reminders, and even health trend analysis. These can help combat loneliness and provide cognitive support.

Smart Home Systems AI-integrated systems like Google Nest or Ring enhance home security and automate tasks like adjusting thermostats or turning off lights, making homes safer and more energy-efficient.

Information About Generative AI

You may have heard about ChatGPT and Copilot, among other generative AI tools.  What is generative AI?  It is a type of AI that generates content like text, images, video, voice overs, and more.  This AI has learned from existing data which it pulls together, sifts through, and manifests outputs based on user requests and prompts.

ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, is an AI-powered chatbot designed for conversational requests. It can assist with writing, answering questions, brainstorming ideas, and more. This makes it a valuable tool for people who want to edit their work or discover new ideas.

Similarly, Copilot is a versatile AI companion designed to enhance productivity. It does so by delivering the same functions as ChatGPT.  Because of that both of these tools can offer older adults an opportunity to engage with technology in a meaningful way.

Have you ever experienced writer’s block when putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard?  Typing a prompt into a generative AI tool can give you a bunch of ideas to get started.

So although you should always double-check the information you receive, here’s some common ways people are using ChatGPT and Copilot that you may want to try.

5 Things These Tools Can Do For You?

1. Answer Questions They can provide clear explanations and solutions to queries, such as “What are good exercises for seniors?” or “How do I cook with a slow cooker?”  In addition, they can simplify complex topics, assist with decision-making, and provide tailored suggestions.
2. Creative Collaboration and Writing Help Need help crafting an email, creating a story, or making a list? These tools can assist with brainstorming, creative and practical writing tasks.
3. Entertainment and Education Engage in casual conversation, play trivia games, or ask for recommendations on books and movies. Whether it’s getting tech tips, organizing thoughts, or learning new skills, they can act as your digital companion.
4. Language Learning  These tools can help practice a new language, translate phrases, or explain grammar rules.
5. Technology Troubleshooting You can ask for general guidance on tech-related questions, such as how to adjust smartphone settings or use new apps.

How to Access ChatGPT and Copilot

ChatGPT can be accessed through its website (OpenAI ChatGPT) or via platforms that integrate the technology. No specialized software is required — just an internet connection and a device such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Accessing Copilot depends on where you’re using it. The most common ways to access it are through Microsoft Apps or the Edge Browser. Copilot is integrated into select Microsoft applications like Word, Excel, and Teams. You can access it by navigating to the feature within these apps, depending on availability.  And when you’re using the Microsoft Edge browser, Copilot may be available in the sidebar. Simply open the sidebar and find Copilot there.

Online Safety Tips When Using ChatGPT and Copilot

Avoid Sharing Personal Information Refrain from providing sensitive details like your address, financial information, or passwords.

Verify Information While ChatGPT and Copilot give insightful responses, they are not infallible. Cross-check important details with reputable sources.  They are not in any way a substitute for professional advice. It’s a tool to guide, assist, and suggest but not to make final decisions on medical, legal, or financial matters.

Use Secure Connections Ensure you’re using ChatGPT or Copilot on a secure internet connection to protect your data.

Understand Privacy Terms Familiarize yourself with the tools’ privacy policies to know how your interactions are managed.

By following these safety tips, aging adults can confidently integrate generative AI into their daily lives. Whether it’s aiding creativity, answering questions, or providing support, the tools can enhance the digital experience with safety and ease.

Are You Ready to Learn More About AI?

This blog post was a basic introduction to AI as a powerful tool that can enrich the lives of older adults, making tasks easier, enhancing home accessibility, and fostering connections. By embracing these tools (while following safety guidelines), aging adults can be more confident as they navigate through all the changes brought by the digital age.

There is so much more to learn. And the world of AI is expanding and changing quickly. The journey to becoming truly “digital savvy” starts with curiosity and a willingness to learn. For those eager to dive deeper into AI, there are online resources that offer reliable and accessible information.  Websites like Coursera and Senior Planet offer courses, and AARP provides information tailored to beginners interested in understanding AI and its applications.

If you prefer to watch videos to learn, platforms like YouTube can provide tips and tricks shared by users with similar experiences. Get started today to learn more about how AI might fit into your life.

For Friends Life Care Members

If you are a Friends Life Care member, you may be glad to hear that the organization has developed policies and procedures about AI as well as social media channels for the team to follow.  It is one more way we are working to use technology tools to help us work smarter for you while also keeping things as secure as possible.  If you have questions about the policies and procedures, please reach out to your Care Coordinator.

If you are not yet a member, contact us today to learn more. Friends Life Care is a nonprofit organization founded on and grounded in Quaker values. For some 40 years, we have had the mission to help older adults, especially members, achieve their goals for aging in place.

 

 

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