Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin), in collaboration with the Research Ireland ADAPT Centre, is proud to announce the launch of Age-Friendly AI: A National Conversation on Artificial Intelligence, a pioneering two-year initiative funded by Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland‘s Discover Programme. This ambitious project aims to bridge the AI knowledge gap for older adults, fostering inclusivity and ensuring their voices shape the future of artificial intelligence. Irish hotelier, Kerry Age Friendly Ambassador, and graduate of TU Dublin, Francis Brennan, launched the initiative at an event on the University’s Grangegorman Campus on Thursday.
With AI increasingly impacting daily life, this initiative will engage an estimated 60,000 older adults in meaningful dialogue, addressing their concerns and perspectives on AI adoption. Through a nationwide series of workshops, a Freepost postcard campaign, an online portal, and in-person events, TU Dublin and its partners will capture insights from older people across Ireland. This will give policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders first-hand perspectives to drive more inclusive AI development.
A Collaborative and Inclusive Approach
By leveraging the expertise of academia, industry partners, policymakers, and community engagement groups—including Age Action, Age Friendly Ireland, the National Disability Authority, and the Centre for Smart Ageing—this initiative will deliver tailored AI literacy training to 1,200 older adults. Through interactive workshops and co-creation sessions, AI literacy materials will be co-designed with older users, ensuring they are relevant and meet their unique needs. The training will be facilitated by ambassadors from TU Dublin’s Digital Futures Research Hub, ADAPT, and Insight research centres, ensuring nationwide reach.
Insights from pilot workshops with U3A (Age Action) groups in Baldoyle and Ballymun libraries highlight a strong demand for AI education. Pre- and post-workshop surveys revealed that 93% of older adults expressed concerns about AI, particularly misinformation, privacy, and security. However, 86% reported an improved understanding of AI after participation, and 96% would recommend similar training to their peers.
Paula Kelly, project lead, outlines that “AI’s advancement presents significant opportunities and challenges for older adults, many of whom may feel marginalised by the scope and pace of these technological changes. This initiative is a vital step in fostering inclusivity by providing older people with a platform to express their views, concerns, and aspirations regarding AI advances as well as equipping them with knowledge to engage with AI-driven technology confidently. By engaging in this dialogue, we not only acknowledge their invaluable perspectives but also help guide the ethical and responsible development of AI technologies that serve society as a whole. Their lived experiences and insights are essential in ensuring that AI evolves in a way that is fair, transparent, and beneficial for all.”
Dr Dympna O’Sullivan, lead researcher on the project, emphasises the importance of the initiative for TU Dublin: “This initiative positions TU Dublin as a leader in responsible AI development and lifelong learning. By fostering an age-friendly approach to AI literacy, the university is driving meaningful change in how AI is integrated into society.”
Celine Fitzgerald, Interim CEO of Research Ireland, said: “Research Ireland are delighted to support Age Friendly AI under the Discover Programme. The rapid advancement of AI is a vital topic for education and public engagement, and it is important to hear the voices of lifelong learners nationwide in discussions around AI. This programme will improve understanding of AI concerns such as misinformation and security, in a way that is tailored to the needs of older adults.”
Dr Emma Clarke, Engaged Research Lead at the ADAPT Research Centre at Dublin City University, highlights the potential for societal impact: “Age Friendly AI: Ireland’s National Artificial Intelligence Literacy Initiative builds on the ADAPT Centre’s track record in driving AI dialogue and literacy through its #DiscussAI programme. This initiative prioritises reaching communities often excluded from AI conversations, particularly older adults, ensuring their ideas contribute to co-creating an AI literacy initiative that serves them. Taking a human-centred approach is vital for the positive societal impact of AI.”
Sheila Cullen from the University of the Third Age (U3A) Sutton/Baldoyle branch and a participant in the pilot study, stresses the importance of lifelong learning: “U3A advocates for Lifelong Learning, and we believe that staying engaged with STEM developments, including AI, provides an opportunity for older people to actively contribute our experience and wisdom to addressing the complex issues it raises.”
