Is AI The Prescription for Loneliness?

Like many, on Easter I visited with an elderly relative. On the table next to her chair was a slideshow picture frame. As we chatted, I saw 4 generations of the important people in her life scrolling by. I asked her about it and she said it gave her great comfort to have them all with her everyday - and then I thought, what if she could also talk with them?

At the PM360 Magazine innovation conference last week, that is the very idea that Sam Glassenberg brought up. Given AI’s ability to animate and generate content (in this case dialogue), it is just a matter of time before we see applications that make lifelike interactions possible.

As the idea of fabricated companions sunk in, I had my “AI Aha” moment. This is big. I am all for the elderly finding comfort where they can. The ability to talk to loved ones, real or not, is a great help. However, I am still asking myself what the broader implications will be.

AI could provide a cure to loneliness for many, not just the elderly. Will this bring about a more peaceful and integrated society or will it lead to further isolation? What kind of regulation is required? Is this akin to a drug that necessitates FDA approval and a written prescription?

I don’t have the answers, but I do know that “AI Buddies, Inc.” is coming. I would very much like to hear your thoughts on the topic.