The artificial intelligence revolution has not bypassed older adults, but a new survey reveals a mix of curiosity and skepticism among those over 50. According to the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, nearly all respondents (92%) expressed a desire to know when information they consume is AI-generated.
Despite varying levels of experience with AI, just over half (55%) of people aged 50 and older have engaged with AI technologies, such as voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Apple’s Siri, or Google Nest. Among these users, 80% acknowledged the benefits of these devices in helping them live independently and safely, with 28% finding them very beneficial.
AI Adoption and Perceived Benefits
The survey indicates that 35% of older adults have used AI-enhanced home security devices, with most finding them beneficial for independent living. Additionally, 14% have utilized AI technologies for health-related information, though nearly half of these individuals (47%) preferred human interaction for such purposes.
The poll, conducted by the U-M Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation and supported by Michigan Medicine, highlights the nuanced relationship older adults have with AI. Robin Brewer, Ph.D., M.S., an assistant professor at the U-M School of Information, emphasized the importance of clear labeling for AI-generated content, a sentiment echoed by the majority of respondents.
“AI is here to stay. Many older adults seem to know about its benefits, yet most want more information about potential risks when using AI technologies,” said Brewer.
Interest, Trust, and Confidence in AI
While 35% of respondents expressed interest in integrating AI into their daily lives, a significant 81% wanted to learn more about the risks associated with AI use. The survey also revealed a split in perceptions of AI’s impact, with 53% believing it could do more harm than good.
Trust in AI-generated information remains low, with only 4% expressing high trust levels. The survey highlighted concerns about “hallucinations”—instances where AI generates false yet plausible information—and the proliferation of deepfake content.
“This inability to tell verified information from false information, whether in the form of text, image, video or audio, is especially important when it comes to health information,” said Jeffrey Kullgren, M.D., M.P.H., M.S., poll director and primary care physician at the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System.
Opportunities for Education and Outreach
The findings underscore the need for educational initiatives to help older adults navigate AI technologies safely. Brewer suggested that organizations and government agencies could play a crucial role in providing guidance on “healthy” AI use, such as when to rely on AI over traditional search engines.
The University of Michigan offers various online learning opportunities about AI, including free mini-courses on generative AI and ChatGPT. These resources aim to equip older adults and their families with the knowledge to use AI effectively and safely.
The survey, conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago, involved 2,883 adults aged 50 to 97 and was administered online and via phone in February 2025. The sample was weighted to reflect the U.S. population, providing a comprehensive overview of older adults’ attitudes towards AI.
As AI continues to evolve, understanding its implications on different demographics remains vital. This survey offers valuable insights into the perspectives of older adults, highlighting both the potential benefits and the need for caution in AI adoption.
