Older adults and AI: missed chances or hidden potential?

Many seniors today still see AI as something only younger people use or something too complex to bother with. Studies show that over half of Americans born between 1928 and 1945 have never tried AI tools. Even among those born between 1946 and 1964, nearly four in ten say they’ve never used AI. Most aren’t excited about the idea either—77% of the oldest group and 64% of the next group admit to feeling little or no enthusiasm. Yet at the same time, many feel uneasy about AI, with nearly two in five Boomers and three in ten from the Silent Generation saying they’re very worried about it. Why the mixed feelings? For most older adults, AI hasn’t been shown in ways that relate to their daily lives. Unlike electricity, which was easy to understand when it arrived, AI often seems vague and abstract. Some seniors see its use naturally when they already spend time on phones or computers, but for others, it feels distant. The real issue isn’t fear of technology—it’s the lack of clear examples that would show how AI could make their routines easier, safer, or more enjoyable. That’s where tools like self-driving cars and companion robots come in. Many families face tough choices as their parents age and driving becomes unsafe. AI-powered services such as Waymo could help older adults regain independence by offering private, reliable rides without relying on family or public transport. The trouble is, these services aren’t available everywhere. Right now, they only operate in a few places. Expanding access could help more seniors stay mobile without giving up control over when or how they travel.Then there’s loneliness, a growing concern among older adults. Over nine in ten users of one AI companion robot reported feeling less isolated after regularly interacting with it. The device acts like a friendly, interactive helper that checks in on moods and offers conversation. While not every senior may want such a tool, for those who do, it can make a meaningful difference in daily happiness. Still, these innovations won’t help if no one knows about them. Many seniors haven’t had a chance to see AI in action or understand how it could benefit them. That’s where policy steps in. Some experts suggest creating “test zones” where new tools can be tried safely under supervision. These pilot programs let developers refine their tech while helping older users adapt without feeling overwhelmed. One thing is clear: AI isn’t about profit or trends. It could be a game-changer for health, independence, and happiness in later years. The question isn’t whether AI should be part of senior life—it’s whether society will step up to make it accessible, practical, and trustworthy for everyone.