In a sunny senior center in Northfield, Illinois, a group of older adults gathered for a class that would open their eyes to the wonders and challenges of artificial intelligence (AI). Most of them had long, gray hair, some with canes, all at least in their 60s, trying to digest the idea of AI.

Questions and whispers filled the classroom. A retired college professor muttered, “Oh, my God.” A confused woman asked, “Does it come with viruses?” And a 79-year-old raised a serious concern, “How do you know if it is fake or not?”

These seniors, who had witnessed the transition from ice boxes to refrigerators and the rise of the Internet, were now facing an entirely new technological revolution. They were eager to learn about the potential and risks of AI, a technology that could reshape their lives once again.

This class was not an isolated event — similar sessions are taking place across the country to educate older adults on AI’s transformative power and potential pitfalls.

Barbara Winston, an 89-year-old participant in the class, expressed her excitement, “This is probably the greatest technical revolution that I will see in my lifetime.”

AI offers seniors numerous benefits, from tackling loneliness to facilitating medical appointments. However, it also comes with unique challenges, as older adults are more susceptible to AI-related scams and misinformation.

Balanced skepticism is essential for seniors as they navigate the world of AI. Michael Gershbein, the instructor of the class, emphasized the importance of being cautious yet proactive in engaging with AI.

During the class, deepfakes and misinformation were discussed, highlighting the need for seniors to be aware of the potential dangers of AI-generated content.

Despite the risks, many seniors are eager to explore AI further, like Ruth Schneiderman, who used AI to enhance a children’s book she was writing.

Classes like these aim to empower older adults in embracing technology while equipping them with the knowledge to navigate the digital landscape wisely.

As the world of artificial intelligence continues to evolve, it is crucial for seniors to stay informed, ask questions, and approach AI with both curiosity and caution.