New technology like complicated gadgets and computer programs can be intimidating for older adults. But what if the technology in question is responsible for doing the learning? Artificial intelligence — or AI for short — is not only simple to access, but it can also help make other technologies work for you. According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), AI for seniors can be as simple as asking your computer or smart phone a question — just like you were talking to another human being.
You can ask it, “What is the best way to save money on my internet bill?” or “Is assisted living the best option for my elderly father with mobility issues?” to find easy answers to the questions you need help with.
Seniors can benefit from AI tools in various aspects of daily life, enhancing their independence, safety, and overall well-being. And Apple Intelligence, ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot are just some of the AI programs that can help you overcome computer-related intimidation in seconds.
Some Helpful Uses of AI for Seniors
Automatic Author:
Are you having trouble getting your thoughts down on paper? You can use AI to draft a letter for you. Just tell the AI program who you want to contact, what you want to say, and make sure you cover the key details. It will provide organized text with proper grammar and punctuation. A warning — while AI is meant to be as humanlike as possible, you should read over the letter before you drop it in an email or in your post office box. You’ll want to make sure the tone is appropriate for the purpose you are intending, and that everything is in the proper context.
Phone Calls on Demand:
If you have an Apple iPhone and want to call a loved one, it couldn’t be simpler. All you have to do to access your artificial intelligence assistant, Siri, is to call her by name. Say “Hey Siri,” then pause for a moment to give the technology a chance to respond. When that happens, tell her to call the person you want to speak to by the name they’re listed under in your contact list. You might say “Call Jason” or “Call Dr. Smith,” and the phone should take care of the rest. Just wait for the ring!
Get Smart:
Worried about your senior loved one coming home to a dark house, being locked out, or confused by a complicated digital thermostat? Smart home technology could be just the thing to simplify their life. Several companies offer voice-activated whole-house automation that can adjust the temperature, turn the lights on, unlock the door, and turn the security system on or off with just a word. The thermostat can also be pre-programmed to adjust the temperature at sunrise, during the day (when people are least likely to be home) or at bedtime. And the lights can be set to switch on at a certain time or switch off at dusk.
Health Benefits:
AI for seniors can be used both to monitor your health and to formulate a plan to improve it. Wearable devices such as the Apple Watch and Fitbit can not only track how much exercise you get, but also keep track of your heart rate, make sure you have a healthy pulse, and notify help if you have a fall or are involved in an accident. AI programs can help device wearers to better relax, take their medications on time, and keep track of what they’re eating, including calories ingested as well as nutrients and sodium intake. Then, they can even take all that gathered information and share it with their doctor.
News You Can Use:
Voice-activated virtual assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, and Amazon’s Alexa can be great for people with mobility issues or challenges with more traditional technology. Just by speaking to their device, seniors can find out what the weather forecast is, learn about the latest news, play music, make dinner plans or find any other bit of information available on the internet.
Break Down Tech Barriers:
While new technology can be intimidating, artificial intelligence might be the most beneficial advance for seniors since the advent of health-monitoring devices. It’s easy to operate, helps manage the details of their lives, and helps leverage existing tech to improve their social life, health and safety with little to no effort.
Talk to your senior loved one today about how AI for seniors could benefit them and give them a quick demonstration on their phone, tablet or computer. It could open a whole new world!
For more helpful technology tips for seniors, visit Bethesda’s Technology blog.
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