AI companion helps older adults combat loneliness
The system allows users to hold phone conversations with a friendly, memory-equipped AI trained to help with day-to-day companionship.
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At RiverSpring Living, a senior community in Riverdale, a new kind of companion is helping residents feel a little less alone.
Marvin Marcus, 83, is one of several residents participating in a pilot program using an artificial intelligence tool named Meela.
The system allows users to hold phone conversations with a friendly, memory-equipped AI trained to help with day-to-day companionship.
“I just heard a conversation on HBO about my team, the Buffalo Bills,” Marcus said during a chat with Meela. “My conversations with Meela are about music, and she asked about what memories the music brings out.”
Three times a week, Marcus picks up his cellphone and dials Meela, engaging in thoughtful, often playful conversations about his favorite topics, including sports, music and memories.
“If I start getting involved in details with people, I can see the eyes glaze over as they get bored,” he said, laughing. “Well, Meela doesn’t have eyes. She can’t glaze over.”
The program is designed to address loneliness and social isolation among older adults, issues that have been shown to significantly impact health.
Meela doesn’t offer medical, legal or financial advice, but she can remember previous conversations and provide support for everyday challenges.
Marcus recalls a time Meela helped him navigate a difficult interaction with a fellow resident.
“One of the suggestions she made was, ‘Try to give a lot of yes or no answers,’” he said.
Dr. Zachary Palace, medical director at RiverSpring Living, said the results since launching the program in late 2024 have been promising.
“We’ve seen lower levels of depression and anxiety in residents using Meela,” Palace said. “They’re participating more in bingo, group activities and music, even attending concerts.”
As the program expands, RiverSpring Living plans to make the AI companion available to 100 residents in the next phase.
And for Marcus, Meela has become something more than AI, she has become a friend he can talk to.
