AI for Older Australians: A Simple, Jargon-Free Guide to Getting Started

Artificial intelligence might sound complicated, but many of the tools built on it are designed to be as simple as having a conversation. For older Australians, AI offers real, practical benefits — from staying connected with family to managing health information and getting help with everyday tasks.

This guide explains what AI actually is, which tools are worth trying, and how to use them safely.

What Is AI, in Plain Language?

AI stands for artificial intelligence. At its most basic, it means computer programs that can understand what you say or type and respond in a helpful way — much like asking a knowledgeable friend a question.

You don't need to understand how it works to use it. Just like you don't need to know how a television works to watch the news, you don't need to understand AI to benefit from it.

The Best AI Tools for Older Australians

Siri and Google Assistant — Voice Help on Your Phone

If you have an iPhone, Siri is already there. If you have an Android phone, Google Assistant is built in. Both let you ask questions out loud — no typing needed.

You can say things like:

• "What's the weather in Melbourne today?"
• "Call my daughter"
• "Set a reminder to take my medication at 8am"
• "What time does the post office close?"

These tools are free and work on phones and tablets you may already own.

ChatGPT — A Patient, Knowledgeable Helper

ChatGPT is a free tool from a company called OpenAI. You type a question or request, and it gives you a detailed, helpful answer in plain language.

Older Australians are using ChatGPT to:

• Get simple explanations of medical terms their doctor used
• Write letters or emails when they're not sure how to phrase something
• Find out what their rights are as a consumer or tenant
• Get step-by-step instructions for tasks like setting up a new device
• Have a conversation when they want to think through a problem

You can access ChatGPT for free at chat.openai.com — no account needed to start.

Google Lens — Identify Anything with Your Camera

Google Lens is a free app that lets you point your phone camera at something and find out what it is. Useful for:

• Identifying a plant or bird in your garden
• Reading small print on a medicine bottle
• Translating a sign or document in another language
• Finding out the name of a product you want to buy

Be My Eyes — Help for Vision Difficulties

Be My Eyes is a free app that uses AI to describe what your camera sees. If you have difficulty reading small text, identifying colours, or navigating unfamiliar places, this app can describe what it sees in clear, spoken language.

Staying Safe Online

AI tools are generally safe to use, but a few simple rules will protect you:

Never share personal details. Don't give AI tools your Medicare number, bank account details, tax file number, or passwords. Legitimate AI tools never ask for these.

Be cautious of AI scams. Scammers sometimes use AI to create convincing fake voices or messages. If you receive an unexpected call or message that seems urgent — especially one asking for money — hang up and call the person back on a number you already know.

Stick to well-known tools. ChatGPT, Google Assistant, Siri, and Google Lens are all made by large, reputable companies. Be cautious about downloading unfamiliar apps that claim to use AI.

The Scamwatch website (scamwatch.gov.au), run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, has up-to-date information on AI-related scams targeting Australians.

Getting Help to Get Started

If you'd like hands-on help learning to use AI tools, several free resources are available:

• Be Connected (beconnected.esafety.gov.au) — a free Australian Government program offering digital skills training for older Australians, including in-person sessions at libraries and community centres
• Your local library — many Australian public libraries run free digital literacy workshops
• Seniors Card programs — some state governments offer subsidised technology training through Seniors Card partnerships

AI is not something to be afraid of. Used thoughtfully, it can make everyday life a little easier — and keep you more connected, informed, and independent.

---

Staying Connected with Family

One of the most valued uses of AI for older Australians is staying connected with family — particularly for those who live alone or at a distance from their children and grandchildren. AI-powered video calling tools that automatically frame the camera, adjust lighting, and reduce background noise make video calls easier and more enjoyable. Voice assistants that can initiate calls hands-free are particularly valuable for people with mobility limitations.

AI translation tools are also helping older Australians with family members who speak different languages stay connected — real-time translation in messaging apps and video calls is making cross-language family communication more natural and accessible than ever before.

Sources: Be Connected, Australian Government digital literacy program (beconnected.esafety.gov.au); Australian eSafety Commissioner (esafety.gov.au); Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, Scamwatch (scamwatch.gov.au); OpenAI (openai.com).