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Benefits of AI for Seniors

New artificial intelligence (also known as “AI”) technology is being developed every day, with tools designed to make life easier for its users – including seniors.   

One survey showed that AI usage among older adults doubled between 2023 and 2024, and will likely continue to rise.  Here’s a quick guide to AI for seniors, including exciting new tools, common concerns and tips for using it in your daily life.

What are the Benefits of AI for Seniors?

AI technology can be used in many ways, from finding and organizing information to generating text and images. It helps you to:

• Save Time: You can use AI to handle simple tasks, such as generating a grocery list. 
• Get More Organized: You can use AI to help plan your week or create a weekly cleaning schedule. 
• Explore New Ideas: AI is also a great place to ask questions, explore ideas and dig deeper into subjects that interest you.

For seniors, it can also be used to boost your health and overall wellbeing, including: 

• Health Monitoring and Management. AI can be used to help manage your health, including medication reminders and tips for a healthy lifestyle. 
• Cognitive Support. AI can be used to boost cognitive function in older adults through interactive games, quizzes and Q&As designed to exercise the mind. 

While AI alone is not enough to provide the support you need, it can be a helpful tool for your daily life. With a quick search or prompt, you can find answers to everyday questions.

Common Concerns About AI

While many older adults are excited about the prospect of AI, others have more hesitation about adapting to this new technology. Two of the most common concerns about AI for seniors are: 

• Distrust and Security Concerns: Many older adults are worried about the security implications of AI having access to their sensitive data. It’s important to only use trusted tools and never give it certain sensitive information (such as your social security information and bank account information).  
• The Learning Curve: Other seniors feel that AI is too new and confusing to use. However, as with any new kind of technology, taking the time to learn how to use these tools is well worth the investment of time and effort, as they can make your life much easier in the long run.  
• Inaccurate Information: ChatGPT and other AI tools are not infallible and can provide incorrect information. Do not make decisions based on AI alone and always double-check your sources.

Prompts for Getting Started

If you need some extra help learning how to use AI, a basic tool such as ChatGPT is a great place to start. Simply open the browser and type in your question or direction. For example:

• Give me a step-by-step tutorial for how to use ChatGPT on my iPhone in simple terms.  
• I am using this recipe that makes a casserole for eight people. Convert the recipe to make enough for just two. 
• Create a plan for reading the Bible in a year, with daily reading that takes about 10 minutes to complete.

You can also use AI to:

• Create an itinerary for your next vacation. 
• Generate a simple meal plan using the groceries in your pantry.  
• Find new craft ideas to do with your grandkids, including instructions and supply lists. 
• Review general health and wellness tips for seniors.  
• Learn more about a topic that interests you, asking questions to dig deeper. 
• Create a printed schedule for your daily routine. 

While it can feel counterintuitive to use AI to learn how to use AI, ChatGPT is a great way to get senior-specific advice and instructions for the tools you want to use. 

Top AI for Seniors: Tools to Know

While many basic AI tools are useful for seniors, there are others designed specifically to assist older adults. Some require a paid subscription to use while others are completely free. A few of the most popular include: 

1. ChatGPT: A conversational AI tool that seniors can use to ask questions, play word games, generate stories and get assistance with writing or technology.  Cost: Free subscription available.  
2. Google Gemini: Google offers a variety of free AI tools, including AI mode and Gemini, a conversational AI tool and Google Assistant. You can also find AI generated summaries when performing a Google search.  Cost: Free with Google Chrome. 
3. Alexa Together (Amazon): A senior-focused service built on Alexa that includes fall detection, remote care support and activity alerts for family members.  Cost: Paid – subscription.

Try experimenting with a few different AI tools to find the one that is most useful in your daily life. 

How to Adapt to New Technology

With so many new tools to explore, it can feel overwhelming for seniors. These tips can help you dive in and feel more confident about trying something new.  

Start Small. You don’t have to learn how to use AI tools overnight. Instead, pick one small goal (such as using a voice assistant to remind you to take your medication) and build your experience from there.  

Find Your Interests. AI can be used to make your life easier – but also more fun. Try exploring AI tools that allow you to be creative, play games and connect with others.  

Ask for Help. Don’t be more afraid to ask a more experienced friend for guidance as you’re learning. Check your community (including your retirement community and local library) for any classes related to adapting to new technology.  

Keep Practicing. Every time to use AI in your daily routine, it gets a little easier. Don’t be discouraged if you find it confusing at first. Give it time and you might be surprised at how quickly you’re able to adapt.  

Learn Safety. Before trying out new tools online, refresh your knowledge of online safety and scams to keep your personal information and finances secure. 

AI for Everyone

While many of these tools are designed to automate tasks, the possibilities of AI for seniors are endless. You could use it to: 

• Plan meals and find recipes. Get recipe ideas based on your diet, cooking style or what’s in your kitchen.  
• Learn a new language. Use AI language apps that adapt to your pace and style of learning.  
• Take virtual tours of the world. Explore museums, landmarks and cities from the comfort of your home. 

At the end of the day, whether you choose to use AI is entirely up to you. Some seniors might prefer to stick to what they know, while others are excited at the possibility of using this new technology. Retirement is all about exploring what excites you during your golden years – and there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to retire.

Find Support at Advent Christian Village

Advent Christian Village is a faith-based retirement community built on small-town values in Live Oak, Florida. Here, you can create your own lifestyle through a wide range of choices for housing and care while exploring opportunities to learn, serve and play. We offer a variety of housing options, from independent to assisted living, for every budget and phase of life. You’ll experience a community where neighbors truly care for one another, and you can age with meaning and purpose.  

Ready for a new kind of retirement in beautiful North Florida?  Call (386) 658-3333 and schedule a visit to Dowling Park to meet our team, learn more about our housing options and experience the many amenities our community offers.    

Note: Advent Christian Village is not affiliated with any of the AI tools mentioned in this blog. This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not imply endorsement or recommendation of any specific product or service.