Artificial Intelligence used to seem like the figment of a sci-fi nerd’s overactive imagination.
However, the reality is that AI isn’t some made-up technology depicted on the big and small screens. It’s here, and it’s getting more and more capable. Voice recognizers, household appliances, medical devices, and banks all deploy AI to change the way we live.
For seniors, learning about AI is no longer merely about being in the know. It’s about being truly literate in this digital era and making good choices that can offer more independence, security, and quality of life.
What follows are the top four things seniors need to know about AI.
AI Is Already Surrounding You
You might think of AI in terms of something used in research facilities or business environments. But the odds are you’re already using it.
When you ask Alexa or Google Assistant to play your music, give you directions, or inform you of the weather, that’s AI in action. And when your cellphone lets you know how to get somewhere using the shortest route or picks a song for you, that’s AI as well. Even email spam filters, bank fraud alerts, and auto-categorizing of photos on social networking sites are all instances of AI.
So, AI isn’t just about humanoid robots or self-driving cars. It’s baked into a lot of the services you’re already using.
AI Can Make Life More Convenient and Accessible
For older people, AI can be beneficial, mainly in terms of accessibility and autonomy. Voice-command systems can turn lights on and off, dial the HVAC temperature up or down, and control appliances without someone having to leave their bed or struggle with switches and dials. AI-powered apps can also interpret for the hard-of-hearing or read to the visually impaired.
In medicine, AI is helping doctors spot health problems sooner with high-tech screening devices, and smartwatches can monitor heart rates, oxygen levels, and sleep patterns constantly.
Whether you wish to age in place or downsize and find a comfortable senior living community, AI can help make your golden years a little more golden.
AI Isn’t Perfect — And It Still Needs Human Oversight
As helpful as AI is, remember it’s not perfect. Voice assistants may get things wrong, and facial recognition software can misidentify people. Seniors who depend on AI to coordinate important medical appointments should double-check crucial information to verify accuracy.
If you’re implementing an AI investment program to track expenses or offer investment suggestions, consult with a human financial advisor before making radical changes. AI medical programs are also useful, but never as a replacement for routine doctor’s check-ups.
Learning AI Isn’t as Hard as You Might Assume
You don’t need to be a tech professional to understand AI — there’s a lot of material available. Low-cost or free courses are available online, in libraries, and at community centers. Online tutorials usually introduce AI in terms that anyone can understand, and how to use it safely.
It’s worth the time to access resources to understand AI. You’ll feel more comfortable with new tools and technology — and you’ll find it easier to steer clear of scams and other issues.
AI is not to be feared. For older individuals, it translates to more convenience, safety, and independence. But you can’t forget the need for preserving privacy, fact-checking, and staying current. By discovering how AI is already present in your life, what it can and cannot do, and learning how to safeguard yourself, you can derive many benefits.
The technology will only continue to grow in capabilities and prominence in day-to-day life. By getting familiar with it now, you’ll be ready to take advantage of everything AI has to offer now and in the years to come.
Founder Dinis Guarda
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