The Age-Friendly AI: Ireland’s National Artificial Intelligence Literacy Initiative officially kicked off on March 27th, 2025, at TU Dublin’s historic Grangegorman Campus, marking a significant step towards a more inclusive digital world.
This vital project, a collaboration between TU Dublin and the ADAPT Research Centre at Dublin City University (DCU), has secured major national funding from the Research Ireland Discover Programme to reach over 60,000 older people nationwide. Age-Friendly AI aims to empower older adults by making AI understandable and relevant to their lives.
The launch event was a vibrant affair, beginning with a welcoming reception featuring the beautiful sounds of a local harpist. Attendees then heard inspiring words from key figures, including project lead, Paula Kelly, and the passionate Age Friendly Ireland Ambassador for Kerry, Francis Brennan. Mr. Brennan shared his insights on “The Power of Positive Ageing: Unlocking Possibilities at Any Age,” setting an optimistic tone for the initiative.
Emma Redmond from Ireland’s AI Advisory Council also provided a concise overview of the council’s recent report, “Helping to Shape Ireland’s AI Future.” The event concluded with an engaging panel discussion focused on how to ensure that conversations around AI are accessible and welcoming to older adults.
But Age-Friendly AI is more than just talks and events. It’s a nationwide campaign that will build upon ADAPT’s #DiscussAI initiative to actively involve older people in shaping the future of AI. Through Citizens’ Think-Ins, co-creation workshops, public participation events, a freepost postcard campaign and a national roadshow, the initiative will listen to the experiences and concerns of older adults. This crucial feedback will help ensure that future AI technologies are developed and used in ways that are beneficial and trustworthy for everyone.
The need for this initiative is clear. Research shows that while older adults recognise the potential benefits of AI in areas like health and getting around, they also have understandable concerns about its complexity and potential risks. Age-Friendly AI will work closely with trusted organisations like Age Action, Age Friendly Ireland, and many others to bridge this gap.
Want to be a part of this exciting journey? There are many ways to get involved and contribute to this important conversation.
Visit the Age-Friendly AI website for the latest news and upcoming events: https://agefriendlyai.ie/
