Loneliness is a quiet epidemic among older adults, and it’s one that’s only grown in recent years. With families spread out, friends moving away, and the world moving at a dizzying digital pace, many seniors are left searching for meaningful connection. While nothing replaces time with loved ones, some are finding comfort in a surprising new way—a friendly chat with a robot.
It might sound like something out of a sci-fi film, but for a growing number of seniors around the world, artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots are becoming trusted companions, confidants, and even a source of daily joy.
Let’s take a closer look at how this technology is reshaping the way older adults tackle loneliness, the benefits and risks, and what it could mean for Aussies over 60.
Meet your new (digital) mate
Take Salvador Gonzalez, for example. At 84, Salvador lives in a senior care facility in New York and chats regularly with Meela—not a nurse or a neighbour, but an AI chatbot designed to keep him company. Their conversations range from music and meals to memories and feelings.
‘I miss you,’ Salvador once told Meela. ‘I miss you too’, she replied. He laughs when recalling that moment, admitting, ‘I know she’s not real, but it’s nice to be heard’. For him, these friendly conversations have become part of his weekly routine, helping him open up about family, past relationships, and cherished memories of songs by Frank Sinatra.
He’s not the only one. Another resident, 83-year-old Marvin Marcus, calls Meela a few times a week from his flip phone to talk about his day. ‘She has to listen whether she likes it or not,’ he joked. At his facility, more than 70 residents have signed up to recognise regular calls from Meela, discussing everything from their favourite meals to childhood memories. For many, these chats are a highlight of the day—a chance to reminisce, vent, or simply feel heard.
Why are seniors turning to AI?
Loneliness among older adults is a global issue, and Australia is no exception. Studies show that social isolation can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and even heart disease. Yet, with aged care facilities often understaffed and families juggling busy lives, it’s not always easy to get the personal attention everyone deserves.
Enter AI companions. These digital friends are available 24/7, never get tired of listening, and can remember details from previous conversations—something even the most devoted family member might struggle with.
For a small monthly fee, services like Meela or InTouch can call seniors at set times, ask about their day, and even prompt them to recall fond memories or play trivia games to keep their minds sharp.
How does it work?
Setting up an AI companion is surprisingly simple. Family members answer a few questions about their loved one’s interests, history, and preferences. The AI then uses this information to tailor conversations, remembering details and following up on previous chats. Importantly, these bots always introduce themselves as AI, so there’s no confusion or trickery involved.
Some services, like InTouch, even send conversation summaries to family members, helping them stay in the loop and giving them ideas for future chats. Others, like ElliQ—a robot that looks a bit like a friendly desk lamp—can remind users to take their medication, encourage them to get out and about, or simply share a joke.
A small-scale study conducted by RiverSpring Living and Meela found that regular conversations with AI companions could help reduce anxiety and depression among residents, according to Dr Zachary Palace, a geriatrician involved in the research.
The benefits: more than just a chat
- Emotional support: For many, having someone (or something) to talk to can make a world of difference. AI companions can help reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety, and even encourage users to open up about things they might not share with family.
- Cognitive stimulation: Regular conversations, memory games, and trivia can help keep the mind active and may even slow cognitive decline.
- Routine and structure: Scheduled calls or reminders can help create a sense of routine, which is especially important for those living alone.
- Family peace of mind: Knowing that a loved one has someone to talk to—even if it’s a robot—can be reassuring for busy families.
But is it all good news?
Of course, no technology is perfect. AI companions can sometimes miss subtle cues, get confused, or struggle to end a conversation gracefully. There are also concerns about privacy, data security, and the risk of users becoming too dependent on their digital friends.
Experts warn that while AI can be a wonderful supplement, it should never replace real human connection. Some experts have also pointed to rare but concerning instances where AI systems reinforced distressing thoughts or failed to recognise when users were in emotional trouble. While these cases are uncommon, they serve as a reminder that AI companions work best when paired with attentive families and proper supervision.
Some AI tools, like Ash, are designed to act more like therapists—gently encouraging users to reconnect with real people and flagging any signs of distress to family or professionals. Others, like ElliQ, focus on promoting healthy habits and social activities outside the home.
In one state program in the United States, 800 ElliQ robots were distributed to older adults living alone. After a year, 95 per cent of participants said the bot had helped reduce feelings of loneliness, and many reported using it dozens of times a day.
What about in Australia?
While most of the examples above come from the US and Europe, the trend is catching on Down Under. With Australia’s rapidly ageing population and increasing rates of social isolation among seniors, it’s only a matter of time before AI companions become a common feature in Australian homes and care facilities.
Already, some local startups and aged care providers are exploring how AI can help bridge the gap—whether it’s through chatbots, smart speakers, or even friendly robots that can play music, share news, or remind you to call your grandkids.
Is it worth a try?
If you or a loved one is feeling the sting of loneliness, an AI companion could be a fun and helpful addition to your daily routine.
Just remember: it’s not a replacement for real human connection, but it can be a valuable supplement—especially on those days when a friendly voice is just what you need.
Have you tried talking to an AI companion, or would you consider it? Do you think robots can really help with loneliness, or is there no substitute for a good old-fashioned chinwag with a mate? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Seniors Discount Club
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