ChatGPT is an online chat helper that uses artificial intelligence (also known as AI) to answer questions, write messages, outline ideas, and much more. People all over the world began using it more in early 2023. You can use whatever language you want with ChatGPT and it will try its best to help you. It can be accessed on a web browser, for example Google Chrome or Safari or even as an app you can install, which is a small program you can download onto your phone or tablet to use ChatGPT directly. Here are some examples of what it can do to help you:
The intended use of ChatGPT is meant for everyone, making it universally accessible. You do not need to know much about technology to use it. Simply type a message.
There is a lot of debate on the use of AI nowadays. Some people argue that artificial intelligence could lead to a decline in human intelligence, usefulness, and motivation because it performs many tasks for us, potentially making people less active or engaged. Others have a more open mind to it, stating that AI systems like ChatGPT are simply assistance tools to knowledge we already have. When a piece of technology gains such widespread attention by the whole world, it is in your best interest to know what it is and what it does. It is natural to feel unsure and discouraged by new technology, but understanding what it does and how it might help can make it easier to approach with confidence, especially if it will impact your personal life, while still cherishing your traditional ideologies.
Technology can feel confusing or intimidating and it can feel like a lot of information to take. However, the introduction of ChatGPT to the people have addressed that problem and made it as simple as it can be. While some say that ChatGPT shouldn’t be used for certain things such as art and assisting with academic essays, it is still a useful tool that can help other things. For example, ChatGPT can help you stay connected, empowered, and independent within the digital world, making you aware of current global happenings. However, it is always important to double-check that information with a trusted news source, since ChatGPT can sometimes get facts wrong or miss key details. You can do this by including a simple instruction in your question, such as “With each piece of information you give me, include the source of where you got it from.” If it doesn't provide a source, you can look it up yourself to confirm
It’s worth learning how to use ChatGPT to your advantage because it is:
Many older adults want to age comfortably at home, tools like ChatGPT can support that goal.
Getting started with using ChatGPT is super easy. All you need to do is:
Here are some examples prompts that someone might use:
ChatGPT isn’t just for fun. It can make everyday life easier by helping people stay organized, connected, and informed with simple, real-life uses that fit naturally into daily routines.
I am sure you often get letters from banks, insurance, or government agencies that are full of jargon. With this, you can copy and paste, upload a photo or the file or even type it out into the chat to help you understand what it means. Uploading it into the chat is super simple, just click the + sign next to the chat box, and you’ll see an option to attach photos or files. Some examples of what you could ask are:
Financial statements can be confusing, ChatGPT can make them more approachable. Same as above, when faced with a confusing bill for example you can type in the sections you don’t understand, upload a photo, or attach the actual file of the bill or document into the chat for clarification and ask question such as the following:
Warning: Never share your personal information such as your SIN number or your address or bank account numbers with AI. You do not know where that information is stored. However, you can still receive help from it without including such personal identifiers.
Technology can sometimes feel confusing, intimidating, and overwhelming, especially if you haven’t used certain tools before. ChatGPT can help by providing plain-language explanations so people can learn at their own pace and feel more comfortable navigating digital tasks:
Many people struggle with forms, eligibility, or notices:
Tip: Since ChatGPT is not advanced enough to know all the details of a government health website and services, it is helpful to copy the information from that website, say for example the PharmCare website, and paste it into the chat and ask to explain it in simpler terms.
A good reminder here is to use ChatGPT to refer you to other sources that might help rather than take direct advice from the chat because it may not always be reliable, something we will discuss later in this blog. Doing this is what sets you apart from letting AI completely run your life, versus letting it simply be used as an assisting tool.
ChatGPT can make writing and sending messages easier, especially when you want to sound clear, polite, or warm. It’s also helpful if English isn’t your first language or if you want to phrase something just right. When you’re waiting on something important, like benefit payments or paperwork from a government office, it can be hard to find the right words to follow up. ChatGPT can help you write a clear, polite message that gets your point across
Practical examples:
Dear Canada Revenue Agency,
I’m writing to follow up on an issue with my benefit payments that has been ongoing for the past month. I’ve contacted the agency several times but haven’t received an update. Could you please let me know the status of my case or advise on the next steps?
Thank you for your time and assistance.
Tip: Because ChatGPT gathers information from across the entire network, it's best not to give it overly simple instructions like 'write me an email to my manager' or 'write me a happy birthday message.' Doing so can make the resulting messages feel a bit off or not entirely genuine. A more thoughtful approach is to draft your message first, and then use a prompt to have ChatGPT refine it for you, building upon the information you've already provided.
ChatGPT isn’t only for information, it is also a great way to explore interests, share moments with family, and discover new things that bring joy.
Example prompts:
Tip: Let ChatGPT give you a few ideas to work with, it’s a tool for suggestions, not answers. Try what it gives you, skip what doesn’t fit, and you might stumble onto something you wouldn’t have found otherwise.
Staying Safe While Using ChatGPT
Like any online tool or website, it’s important to use ChatGPT safely. Artificial intelligence is still new, and there’s a lot we don’t know about it. Being cautious helps you get the benefits without unnecessary risk. Here are some tips:
Not everyone over 60 is wary of technology, in fact, many older adults are already using ChatGPT in creative, practical ways. Here’s what some of them have shared:
Across these experiences, one thing stands out: people are using ChatGPT to stay curious, informed, and engaged, not to replace human interaction, but to make everyday life a little easier to navigate.
ChatGPT is a tool designed to help you feel more confident, independent, and capable in everyday life. Whether you’re decoding a confusing letter, drafting a message, or discovering new interests, it’s about making small tasks easier and giving you space to focus on what matters. Start with one question or prompt at a time, explore at your own pace, and see where curiosity takes you. Even small steps can make technology feel approachable rather than overwhelming. Embrace technology as a helper, not a replacement. With patience, curiosity, and the right guidance, it can open doors to understanding, connection, and independence.
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