Tipperary Workshop Explores AI's Impact on Ageing Population

In a significant community engagement effort, a workshop titled "Technology & Growing Older: Let’s Talk About Artificial Intelligence" was held on June 9, 2025, in Thurles, County Tipperary. The event, which attracted 56 participants, provided a platform for local residents of varying technological backgrounds to discuss the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the ageing population. This initiative was part of the 'Age-Friendly AI' project, a collaborative effort funded by Research Ireland, led by Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) and the ADAPT Centre at Dublin City University (DCU), with contributions from multiple age-focused organizations.

The workshop aimed to gather insights on how AI technologies can be designed to better serve older adults, ensuring that their experiences and concerns are integral to future AI developments. According to Dr. Mary O'Sullivan, a researcher at TU Dublin and co-organizer of the event, “The voices of older adults are crucial in shaping technologies that affect their lives. Our goal is to create AI solutions that are not only innovative but also inclusive.”

Participants engaged in discussions about their hopes and fears regarding AI, emphasizing the need for age-friendly adaptations in AI applications. Many expressed a desire for technologies that can assist them in daily tasks without being overly complex. One attendee, John Murphy, stated, “We need tools that enhance our independence, not confuse us.”

The 'Age-Friendly AI' project is dedicated to ensuring that AI advancements are accessible and relevant to older adults across Ireland. This inclusive approach is essential as the population ages; by 2036, it is projected that nearly 25% of Ireland’s population will be aged over 65, according to the Central Statistics Office (CSO) report published in December 2022.

The workshop's findings will directly inform the development of an AI Literacy training program tailored for older individuals, set to launch in early 2026. Dr. O'Sullivan highlighted that this program aims to empower older adults by enhancing their understanding of AI technologies, thereby enabling them to engage with these tools confidently.

Internationally, various organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) have recognized the importance of integrating technology into the lives of older adults. A 2023 WHO report indicates that technology can significantly improve the quality of life for elderly populations when designed with their needs in mind. Similarly, the United Nations has called for more inclusive tech policies that consider the ageing demographic.

As discussions around AI continue to grow, Tipperary's initiative exemplifies a proactive approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies. The commitment to inclusivity demonstrated in this workshop reflects a broader trend towards age-friendly innovations that prioritize the voices of older adults in the technological landscape.

The success of this workshop marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about technology and ageing, and it sets a precedent for similar initiatives nationwide. With the valuable insights gathered, Tipperary's community is poised to lead the way in shaping a more equitable technological future for all ages.