The Age-Friendly AI project has wrapped up its first year with an interactive discussion workshop held at Dublin City Council’s Wood Quay Venue on the 3rd of December.

The workshop started with a presentation from Project Lead, Paula Kelly, about Artificial Intelligence (AI). Paula introduced AI as a technology that is designed to do tasks that usually need human thinking, like looking for patterns or making decisions. She explored how AI is already integrated into our everyday lives, from smartphone apps (like predictive text and weather apps) and smart home technologies (like Alexa). It is being used more and more on a daily basis, such as in online shopping, banking and other services.

During the workshop, participants engaged in an interactive discussion about their hopes and concerns about AI and explored ideas on how AI training could work for them. The insights gathered will directly inform the Age-Friendly AI Literacy Training Programme that will be rolled out in 2026 in collaboration with the public libraries under the national Skills For Life Programme. The voices of the participants will help shape the format and content of the training material.

Amongst others, participants mentioned AI’s potential to help older people to remain at home through assistive technology and providing quick access to easy to understand information. They highlighted the importance of human oversight when using AI and acknowledging potential biases. Biases refers to AI making decisions based on prejudiced information against certain groups of people, reinforcing stereotypes. Participants contributed with many ideas on what AI training for older people could look like.

To share their insights on Age-Friendly AI’s journey, we welcomed two guest speakers. Dr. Claudia Roessing from Age-Friendly Ireland stressed the importance of ensuring digital inclusion, emphasising that no one should be left behind as society moves towards adopting AI. Michael Core from TU Dublin reflected on his experience with the Age-Friendly AI project, reinforcing a key message we’ve heard since the project launch in March 2025: that when it comes to engaging with new technology, age shouldn’t be a barrier.

Age-Friendly AI aims at creating inclusive and safe environments for participants to freely discuss AI and its impact on people’s lives. One participant provided feedback after the event on the 3rd of December, describing the session as energetic, engaging and informative.

“Thank you all for your enthusiasm, energy, positivity and making the session so informative and engaging.”
– Participant from the event in Dublin, 3rd December.