Brenda Lyle – Florida Today
By Brenda Lyle
Q: What can AI do for seniors?
A: In 1927, the silent film Metropolis introduced audiences to a futuristic world and the presence of a humanoid robot. This early portrayal of artificial intelligence (AI) sparked both fear and fascination. Since then, many films have featured the rise of intelligent technology –today more science than science fiction. As AI dominates the news, we are divided about how it will shape our future. One thing is sure: AI will profoundly influence our daily lives – including those of older adults.
To start, let’s look at what AI actually is. Artificial intelligence is a field of computer science dedicated to creating systems that can perform tasks requiring human-like intelligence; things like learning, reasoning, and problem-solving. Its foundations were laid in the 1940s, with the invention of programmable computers. The term “AI” didn’t appear until 1956, when the field was formally recognized as a scientific discipline. Since then, AI has evolved steadily from theory into practice.
Modern technology has accelerated this growth. The rise of the internet, smartphones, and voice-activated assistants like Alexa and Siri has made AI commonplace. Your devices do more than just respond—they learn and adapt. When you search online, algorithms detect patterns and tailor recommendations based on your behavior. In healthcare, hospitals now use AI to create discharge plans, monitor patient data, and predict potential complications.
AI’s impact on the job market remains widely debated. Experts predict significant changes, with many jobs shifting or even disappearing. ChatGPT and similar programs can generate ideas, write a marketing plan, compose a song, design a logo and so much more, for free– within seconds. AI is also expected to create future collaboration between humans and machines, with especially great things expected in the area of medicine. Even as early as 1985, robot-assisted brain surgery demonstrated how technology can enhance skilled work.
For older adults, evidence shows that AI-enhanced tools can improve safety, independence, and quality of life. Fall detection, emergency alerts, automated lighting and locks, wearable devices that track vital signs, send medication reminders, detect health changes – all of these are reality. Even cognitive health can be supported through AI-powered brain games. Moreover, AI companions (virtual pets, chatbots, social robots) help reduce loneliness. Voice assistants make tasks easier by managing schedules, creating lists, and offering instant information. And accessibility tools such as text-to-speech and voice commands make numerous devices more user-friendly.
The current ”Wild West” status for AI unfortunately means scams will also get smarter, with hyper-realistic impersonations, synthetic identities and enhanced phishing campaigns. But as AI evolves, its potential to support older adults remains strong, offering new opportunities for safety, connection, and independence.
Brenda Lyle is a Certified Care Manager and Certified Dementia Practitioner with One Senior Place, Greater Orlando. One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.
