The growth in artificial intelligence (AI) and innovative technologies has been a boost to seniors (defined as adults over 65 years), revolutionizing how they live and work.  The global AI market is expected to see a compound annual growth rate of 37.3%, between 2023 and 2030, according to a report dated July 2023. It is also projected to reach USD1,811.8 billion by 2030. Moreover, with ChatGPT dominating the headlines, the impact of artificial intelligence on societies in general and individuals in particular are being addressed, usually negatively.  The growth and acceptance of AI scares many people, seniors among them. Yet the introduction of AI is like the second Industrial Revolution. Some people may lose their jobs; AI may create other jobs.  However, the speed of technological developments means that many seniors have been left feeling ostracised and out of touch with the modern world. They can feel that they cannot access or find support around these developments.

In a book entitled: “SeniorITy: how AI and technology can enhance senior living”, Lucia Dore and Carole Railton want to provide seniors with the information and skills needed to use technology to their advantage. There is no doubt, that developments in AI have the power to dramatically enhance the latter years of most people. This book will look at how seniors can deal with this big sea change in technology, keep up with new developments and make the most of them. It will give readers the information they are likely to need to have more progressive and cohesive lives and make the most of the future.

The book cites research from experts including criminologists, high-end tech developers, designers and futurists, and covers topics such as, health, wealth, day-to-day living and body language. It aims to examine the latest developments in technology, what to expect from the future and to remove the unease many older people have around technology. By keeping on top of new trends and developments, readers will feel empowered to use AI and technology in their everyday lives, for example, to manage their money, shop or to stay connected with others, while also making sure they are protected online.

Whether readers are feeling inspired, frustrated, fearful or curious about the ever-growing number of technological advancements, SeniorITy offers practical guidance for both seniors themselves and those in their support network, such as family, friends and carers. Designed to be an accessible guide broken down into easy-to-read chapters, it is simple for anyone to reference as needed. In a society increasingly built on technology, without the information in this book, seniors may feel they are falling behind. With senior isolation already a major concern, the right applications of AI technology could provide the answer. SeniorITy is a must-read for seniors looking to lead a more independent, connected and empowered life in the modern world, confident in the knowledge that they are keeping up with their younger counterparts.

Healthcare, in which AI and analytics are used extensively, is one of the areas that the book explains in more detail. Healthcare incorporates telemedicine: smart platforms that integrate electronic medical records (EMRs) and health records, as well as everything else that makes it easy to monitor health.

At the simplest level, AI chatbots at home can help patients keep on top of care plans. These AI applications remind seniors when to take medication, keep doctors’ appointments, even when to eat, which helps in removing the anxiety and confusion that many older people face. AI-powered social robots provide a level of companionship for lonely seniors, who may form a relationship with chatbots.

Telemedicine will likely become part of all medical treatments. It has not only made it easier than ever before to get medical prescriptions, but it can deliver different types of teachings for a healthy life. For example,

it can recommend exercises to improve posture. Our posture is changing with technology. One case study goes like this: “I no longer need a prescription to get my medication; it’s all done electronically. The pharmacy receives the prescription when it’s due and the medication is delivered to me in a timely fashion. The efficiency of this service is beneficial to me and to other seniors.”

All these developments make it easy for seniors to live independently or for caregivers to know their charges are safe, but AI also helps us to increase our lifespan. It may even be able to bring us back to life after death. An article in the Wall Street Journal discusses whether AI could bestow “digital mortality” on individuals, “preserving the personalities of the departed in virtual form and then allowing them to evolve.”

Almost all aspects of seniors’ lives have been impacted by AI, from healthcare to everyday living. Technology—from tracking devices to smart refrigerators and convection cookers—is increasingly enabling seniors to look after themselves and caregivers to look after seniors, whether in retirement villages, care homes or traditional homes across the world. Seniors need to embrace technology and AI and not fear it.