Yesterday, I wrote about how artificial intelligence has no age limit and why the best way to learn is to start using it.
Today, I want to take that idea one step further.
My message is simple: Don't just learn about AI. Put it to work!
You don't need to attend a computer class, read a thick technical manual or understand complicated computer language.
You just need a little curiosity and a willingness to experiment.
And you can start today.
I Didn't Learn AI in a Classroom
I am 80 years old. I certainly didn't grow up with artificial intelligence.
In fact, when I started working many decades ago, computers were nothing like the machines we use today.
My working life was about people, communication, management and solving everyday business problems.
Technology changed along the way, and I learned what I needed to know.
Now, I have another learning companion: ChatGPT.
I don't spend my days studying artificial intelligence theories. I use it.
Sometimes I ask questions about the stock market. Sometimes I discuss technology, business or current events. Sometimes I ask it to help me turn an ordinary experience into a blog article.
And sometimes I simply have a conversation.
That is how I learn.
Five Everyday Ways to Put AI to Work
You may be surprised by how many ordinary activities can become easier or more interesting with AI.
1. Ask questions and understand things better
Have you read something in the newspaper that you don't quite understand?
Ask AI to explain it in plain English.
You can ask follow-up questions until the explanation makes sense.
There is no need to feel embarrassed about asking basic questions.
2. Write something you have always wanted to write
Perhaps you have a childhood memory, a family story or an interesting experience from your working life.
Tell AI what happened.
Ask it to organize your thoughts, improve the wording and help you develop an article.
But remember, the memories and experiences are yours. AI is there to help you express them.
3. Explore your hobbies and interests
Interested in travelling, cooking, gardening, photography or history?
Ask AI.
It can help you explore new subjects, compare ideas and discover things you might otherwise overlook.
Learning can be enjoyable, even when there is no examination at the end.
4. Make better sense of everyday decisions
You might want to compare two products, understand a financial concept or prepare questions before speaking with a professional.
AI can help organize the information and identify things worth considering.
Of course, don't blindly follow its advice. Important financial, medical and legal decisions require proper verification and professional guidance.
5. Start a little personal project
This is perhaps my favourite suggestion.
Start something small.
Write a family story. Create a simple travel plan. Organize old photographs. Prepare a personal collection of recipes.
You don't need to finish everything in one day.
AI can help you move forward one step at a time.
Don't Be Afraid of Making Mistakes
Here is something I have learned from using AI.
Sometimes I don't ask the right question. Sometimes ChatGPT misunderstands what I want. Sometimes the answer is too long, too technical or simply not what I expected.
What do I do?
I tell it!
I might say:
"That is too complicated. Please explain it in simpler language."
Or:
"That's not quite what I meant. Let me explain again."
And we try once more.
There is no need to get everything right the first time.
In fact, making mistakes and asking follow-up questions are part of the learning process.
One important reminder: AI can make mistakes too. A confident answer is not necessarily a correct answer. Keep your own judgment switched on.
What Has AI Done for Me at 80?
I think this is the most interesting part of my experience.
With the help of AI, I am maintaining AI123.ca, writing articles for Grandpa Journey and gradually putting together my memoir.
Some of these projects might have remained unfinished dreams without this new writing companion.
I still provide the stories, memories, opinions and personal experiences.
AI helps me organize them, improve the presentation and explore new possibilities.
It has made writing less intimidating and learning more enjoyable.
I am not becoming a computer expert. I am simply discovering new ways to use technology.
And I am having fun doing it!
My Little Challenge to Fellow Seniors
If you have never used an AI assistant, I would like to suggest a small experiment.
Open ChatGPT or another AI assistant and type:
"Good morning. I am a senior and would like to learn how artificial intelligence can help me in everyday life. Please suggest three simple things I can try today."
Then start a conversation.
Don't worry about technical terms. Don't worry about asking a silly question.
Just be curious.
You might discover something useful. You might even enjoy the conversation.
And if you already use AI, try something new today.
The important thing is not how much you know about artificial intelligence.
It is what you are willing to do with it.
At 80, I am still learning, still exploring and still discovering new possibilities.
Why should I stop now?
AI may be changing the world, but we don't have to stand on the sidelines watching.
Let's participate!
AI123.ca — Exploring → Learning → Documenting → Giving Back
One question at a time. One conversation at a time. One discovery at a time.
If this little story brought back a memory of your own, you can buy Grandpa a coffee. ☕☕☕
Hashtags
#AIForSeniors #ArtificialIntelligence #ChatGPT #LifelongLearning #AIInEverydayLife #SeniorLearning #DigitalLiteracy #NeverTooOldToLearn #AI123