By Raphael Francis

A few months ago, most of the 27 seniors who gathered at Sarah McDonald’s Place in Pickering knew artificial intelligence only from news headlines and science fiction movies. Six weeks later, they were asking chatbots questions, spotting AI in their daily routines, and asking organizers the same question: “When does Part 2 start?”

The Canadian Jamaican Club (CJC) of Oshawa offered the “AI for Seniors” program with funding from the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP). The program supports projects that help older adults stay active, engaged and connected in their communities. It set out to take the mystery out of a technology that is quickly changing how people shop, bank, communicate and get information.

Over the six weekly sessions, participants learned what Artificial Intelligence is and, just as importantly, what it is not. They explored basic ideas such as how AI systems learn from large amounts of data, how voice assistants understand spoken requests, and how apps suggest the next song, movie or news story. The focus throughout was on everyday use.

Participants saw how AI tools can help draft a letter, plan a meal, translate a message from a grandchild abroad, summarize a long document, or answer a health or travel question in plain language. They also learned to use these tools wisely. Sessions covered how to recognize online scams, protect personal information, and double-check what an AI tool says instead of accepting every answer as fact.

The atmosphere in the room was a big part of the program’s success. Many participants had once felt left behind by technology. Here they were encouraged to ask questions, try things for themselves, and learn from one another. As the weeks went on, hesitation gave way to curiosity, and curiosity turned into confidence.

“This course opened my eyes to the exciting possibilities of Artificial Intelligence. Learning to use ChatGPT was enlightening, educational and fun”, reported Beverly Mattis, a past president of the CJC and a retired teacher.

“The class took on an interesting approach to AI, with emphasis on how it could enhance the life of seniors with fun and having information at your fingertip”, said Lorna Shepherd a resident of Cobourg who attended the classes.

The group hopes a second installment will cover more hands-on practice and new tools as the technology develops.

The CJC’s program shows that it is never too late to learn, and that seniors want to take part in the digital world, not just watch it from the sidelines. Today AI can help people stay independent, informed and in touch with family. Programs like this make sure no one in the community is left out.

For information about future programs, contact the Canadian Jamaican Club of Oshawa at cjcofoshawa@gmail.com.

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