Everyone is talking about artificial intelligence. Younger generations use it every day—for text messages, photos, research, and even doctor’s appointments. But what does that mean for people who didn’t grow up with smartphones? This article explains what AI can do for seniors in their daily lives, where it’s useful, and what to look out for.
How AI Is Useful for Seniors in Everyday Life
Specific applications that work directly in everyday life:
- Have texts written for you: letters, emails, complaints, or congratulations—just dictate or type, and the AI will draft them for you.
- Searching for information: Instead of using Google Search, you can ask ChatGPT directly: „What are the side effects of ibuprofen?“ or „How do I get from Zurich to Bern by train?“
- Get pictures described: If you take a photo of a plant, an animal, or an unknown document, you can ask the AI, „What do you see in this picture?“
- Recipes, advice, explanations: For seniors, AI means, above all, having a patient teacher who doesn't consider any question too simple.
We write about this, among other things, on https://ki-senioren.info
Privacy: What You Shouldn't Enter
AI systems like ChatGPT process all user input on servers in the United States. Whatever you enter is stored and can be used to train the AI. This leads to a clear rule:
Never enter: passwords, bank account information, Social Security numbers, full addresses combined with names, or medical history that includes personal information.
General questions—without personal information—are harmless. The AI doesn't need personal information to be useful.
So be sure to take advantage of offers such as https://lumo.proton.me or https://www.infomaniak.com/de/euria
Common Misconceptions About AI Among Seniors
Many people believe that AI is only for tech experts. The opposite is true: People with no computer experience, in particular, benefit from the fact that AI responds in plain language—no programming knowledge is required.
Another misconception: AI knows everything and is never wrong. Wrong. AI sometimes invents facts that sound plausible but are actually false. This phenomenon is called hallucination. That’s why it’s important to always double-check important information—especially regarding health, law, or finance—with experts.
That's why we've developed a program at Pro Senectute: https://www.prosenectute.ch/
Which AI Tools Are Suitable for Seniors
Not all AI tools are equally easy to use. Recommended for beginners:
- ChatGPT (chat.openai.com): The simplest interface, free basic access, and German works well.
- Perplexity (perplexity.ai): Provides answers with source citations; well-suited for research.
- Microsoft Copilot: Integrated into Windows and Bing, making it easy for existing Windows users.
All three work in your browser—no installation required. And it's best to start with the free version.
AI for Seniors in Switzerland: A Growing Topic
In Switzerland, adult education centers, Pro Senectute, and educational institutions have been actively engaged in AI education for older generations since 2023. The need is great. According to a survey by the Federal Statistical Office, people over 60 are using the Internet more intensively than they did five years ago—and AI tools will follow.
AI for seniors is no longer a niche topic. It is a matter of digital inclusion.
For more information, see also: https://ki-senioren.info and on https://echtcheck.ai/
