AI tools and the 50+ generation
Gone are the days when the idea of talking to a machine seemed like science fiction. This truth also applies to the 50+ generation. The survey showed that almost 1 in 3 consumers aged 50 and over have seamlessly integrated AI voice assistants into their everyday lives.
The previous episodes of our journey to Understanding AI – AI for all and Data security and privacy explored the concerns and hopes of the 50+ generation in regard to artificial intelligence. Just to remind you: it was Sharon, a very interesting albeit only statistically existing person, who brought us closer to the results of the survey conducted at the beginning of 2023 by Future Processing among over 2,000 UK residents over 50. Now it’s time to examine the AI tools that Sharon uses.
Voice assistants: a game-changer for users 50 and above
Have voice assistants become trusted companions for tasks both large and small? For a third of the UK’s elderly population, the answer seems to be yes. From setting appointment reminders and shopping lists to answering burning questions or simply playing their favourite song, AI voice assistants are revolutionising the way older generations handle everyday tasks.
Moreover, as technology becomes more and more user-friendly, seniors are not only using AI voice assistants but actively relying on them. This not only makes them more comfortable but also highlights the importance of inclusive technology solutions that cater to all age groups. As a matter of fact, it proves that technology knows no age limits and is accessible to everyone.
Chatbots: revolutionising user experiences for older adults
How about more interesting facts about AI tools used by British people over 50? Based on our survey, a staggering 40% of British consumers over the age of 50 are already using chatbots to provide customer service, and also plan to continue doing so in the future.
These results highlight the willingness of seniors to use innovative solutions to their daily needs. Once considered a novelty, customer service chatbots have become trusted allies in tasks such as resolving queries, tracking deliveries, and seeking technical support. This figure also reflects older consumers’ expectations for an even more seamless and efficient customer experience in the coming years.
Overall, this statistic emphasises the resiliency of older generations in embracing technological advances. It highlights the importance of user-friendly interfaces and accessible digital solutions tailored to different age groups, ensuring everyone can benefit from the convenience and efficiency that technology offers.
The 50+ generation and AI image generators
Awareness of disinformation in the digital age is growing, but is this fact also known to British respondents to our survey? The research shows that over 35% of this demographic are unaware of what an AI image generator is. These statistics may be disturbing. At the same time, this result highlights the urgent need for comprehensive digital skills initiatives tailored specifically to older generations.
In an era where manipulated visualisations can deceive, it’s crucial for people to understand the concept of AI image generators. These tools have the potential to create convincing, if completely fabricated, images, raising concerns about their ethical implications. This data highlights the urgent need to fill the knowledge gap, ensuring seniors have the awareness and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the digital age.
Unveiling gender disparities in AI adoption
Now let’s take a closer look at the results of the survey. The research on the adoption of artificial intelligence tools reveals intriguing gender disparities among respondents. For men, 45% said they did not currently use or plan to use it, reflecting some reservations towards AI technology. Notably, 21% admitted they had no idea about these tools, 18% were forward-thinking, and 17% had previous experience with AI applications.
On the other hand, women’s responses indicate a different tendency. A significant 42% of women reported no current or planned use, suggesting a similarly cautious approach. A significant 34% were unsure about AI-based tools, signalling a potential need for more accessible education. In contrast, 13% had previous experience and 11% anticipated future use.
Exploring age-dependent trends in AI tool adoption
Additionally, our survey research reveals interesting dependencies between age groups among British respondents. In the 50-59 age group, 38% said they did not currently use or plan to use it, and 28% admitted they didn’t know what these tools were. In contrast, 18% had previous experience and 16% anticipated future use.
Among the 60-69 age group, statistics showed a higher rate of tool non-use – 46% did not express current or planned involvement, and 29% were not familiar with AI tools. However, there was a noticeable interest in future adoption at 14%, with 12% having previous experience.
In the 70-79 age group, the tendency to not use it was even more pronounced – 54% did not declare any current or planned involvement. A significant 28% had no idea about AI-based tools, only 10% expressed interest in their future adoption, and 8% had previous experience.
Future Processing’s vision for AI education and empowerment
Artificial intelligence holds the potential to shape our future in ways that are beyond our wildest imaginations. However, the risk of digital exclusion looms large, which can only exacerbate the existing social inequalities. It’s this realisation that drives our belief that technology companies bear a moral responsibility to educate the public about AI’s limitless possibilities, the opportunities it presents, and the potential threats it carries.
“Keeping up with rapidly changing technology can be especially daunting for older generations who may not be as familiar with new trends. However, it is important to be open-minded and willing to adapt to change, as technology can offer many benefits to people of all ages. With a little effort, anyone can learn to use technology to improve their lives, find a hobby or use social media to keep in touch with loved ones.”Krzysztof SzabelskiHead of Technology
Hence, why not take advantage of AI’s potential with us? If you’re an individual over 50 seeking guidance on harnessing AI tools, Future Processing is here to support you. Visit our Understand AI website, where we’ve crafted a digital haven tailored to users aged 50 and above. Delve into our company’s blog for expert insights, practical advice, and the latest trends in AI technology. Reach out today with any questions or doubts you have. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to empower yourself in the digital age; join us on this exciting journey today!
