Artificial intelligence for seniors

The **“My Digital Companion”** programme aimed to help older adults better understand digital tools and discover how artificial intelligence could be useful in their everyday lives.

The programme offered a calm, clear and appropriately paced learning process.

Many older people still feel anxious about smartphones, the Internet or the risks of scams.

The sessions therefore began with simple ways of using a phone.

Participants learned how to enlarge text, organise applications, use the camera, send a photograph, carry out a search, use a translation tool and make a video call.

They then discovered different uses of artificial intelligence.

For example, the tools could help them write a message, understand a text, summarise information, suggest a recipe, organise a list or prepare a question.

However, the programme also emphasised the limitations of these technologies.

Participants learned that generated answers are not always accurate and that medical, legal or financial information must be checked with professionals or through official sources.

An important part of the training focused on protection against scams.

Older participants learned how to recognise suspicious messages, fake links, fraudulent calls, attempts to steal data and unusual requests for personal information.

Learning was based on repetition, demonstrations and completing each step one at a time.

Each participant was given the time needed to understand and repeat the actions independently.

Simple written notes could also be prepared to help participants remember the steps at home.

Beyond digital learning, the programme also helped reduce social isolation.

Participants met other people who shared similar difficulties and were able to exchange their experiences.

The final objective was to help them use technology with greater confidence, safety and independence.