You’ve likely heard plenty of talk lately about Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT or Google Gemini. If you want to dabble, a good place to start is by making AI your fast and helpful personal assistant.
Here are five simple, practical ways older Canadians can put AI to work for them:
1. Translating “Doctor-Speak”
Medical appointments can feel like a whirlwind of big terms. You can paste notes or test results into AI to get clear context before your next visit.
- Try asking: “Can you explain osteoarthritis in simple terms without medical jargon?” or “What 3 key questions should I ask my doctor about a new blood pressure medication?”
2. Navigating Canadian Pensions & Tax Credits
Understanding government programs can feel like reading a foreign language. Many seniors ask AI to break down complex rules into simple terms.
- Try asking: “What Canadian tax credits exist for senior home mobility modifications?” or “Who is eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan?”
3. Scam Verification
There’s a new scam every minute, but you can use AI to help you discern if the messages you’re receiving are real or not.
- Try asking: “How do I protect myself from ‘grandparent scams’ that use cloned voices on the phone?” or “I got an email saying the CRA owes me money. How can I tell if this is a scam?”
4. Help Drafting Messages
Stuck on how to word a note or email? AI is a great sounding board for writing letters or requests.
- Try asking: “Draft a polite email to my strata committee about noisy neighbours.” or “Help me write a birthday message for my teenage granddaughter.”
5. Making Travel Plans
Skip endless web searches and instead get a full itinerary with suggestions on routes and where to stay, eat and play.
- Try asking: “Plan a three-day trip to Victoria for a couple who have mobility challenges,” or “Create a packing list for a seven-day Alaskan cruise.”
Three Golden Rules for Staying Safe
Tools like Gemini and ChatGPT have free versions you can access. But always keep your wits about you when using them:
- Keep private details private: Never share your SIN, bank account numbers, credit card numbers, or home address.
- Double-check the facts: AI is great for general ideas, but frankly it’s not always truthful. Always verify details with your doctor, financial planner, or by calling service providers directly.
- Don’t substitute AI for humans: Chatting with AI can feel personal as well as helpful. Ultimately, only humans can provide the connection that leads to healthy community.
Want to learn more? Download the non-profit Gluu Society’s free Guide to Artificial Intelligence.
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