Utilizing Conversational AI Technology for Social Connectedness Among Older Adults: A Systematic Review

With the growing global older population and the impact of loneliness and social isolation in this group, it is imperative to study resources to improve social connectedness. Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered platforms are an emerging technology being utilized for this purpose. This systematic review investigated the impact of AI interventions on loneliness and social isolation in older adults. Eighteen studies were included in this systematic review. Conversational AI technology played a role in improving numerous areas that are known to increase social connectedness. Those areas included self and shared identity, social integration, usability and usefulness, social support, self-efficacy, and health outcomes. While some participants enjoyed the AI interaction, sensed relationships developed, and felt the AI was useful, others would like conversational AIs and AI chatbots to be more human-like and conversations to have more depth and provide help and information gathering more targeted to their needs.