The recent release of ChatGPT, a highly capable and intuitive chatbot, has created a new buzz around artificial intelligence. While the senior living industry is not known for its high rate of technology adoption, AI is catching the interest of a growing number of senior living developers looking for ways to improve care while they grapple with staffing shortages. The latest AI programs have shown capabilities in decision-making and language that seem to be the perfect solution. But artificial intelligence has its limitations; here is what AI can (and can’t) do for senior living communities:

AI Can be an Administrative Powerhouse

Unsurprisingly, AI has been most heavily used for redundant clerical tasks. It can easily clear directors’ and managers’ plates of accounting, staff scheduling, and even managing food costs. As machine learning develops, data will drive AI’s ability to make, or at least advise on more complex decisions.

AI Can’t Build Trust with Residents

Healthcare AI is booming, with new technologies popping up to detect falls, predict health trends, and manage set health plans. But there are boundaries that AI is unable to cross. Ethical concerns related to privacy can limit the data AI can access. Residents might not hold stock in recommendations made by a machine. Since one of the biggest health struggles in seniors is loneliness, having trusted and familiar faces handling their care is essential to a community’s success. While AI is a helpful tool for existing senior living health teams, it will never completely replace them.

AI Can Streamline Sales

Analyzing data is what AI does best. For example, management companies use AI to keep tabs on rent trends to stay competitive. Furthermore, AI can objectively analyze large volumes of data to aid investment and business development decisions. The most recent developments in conversational language can even assist in not only analyzing market data but also creating effective marketing material. Many senior living sales referral services have adopted AI to better match seniors with communities.

AI Can’t Create Fun

Residents expect a community that is vibrant and full of exciting activities. Regardless of how well AI programs learn residents’ habits and preferences, ‘fun’ is just not something that machines can create on their own. Activities, programs, and outings that can delight your residents are best left to a passionate activities director.

AI Can Make Technology More Accessible

Senior living residents are not known for being technologically adept. However, most of them are willing to try new technology if it is simple to use. AI products like Amazon’s Alexa can respond to requests with a conversational tone and don’t need specific commands to operate. Machine learning can adapt to how each resident interacts with the technology, so the learning curve is short.

Hire Innovative Senior Living Managers

Regardless of how well it processes language and data, AI technology in Senior Living is only as effective as the people implementing it. The recruiters at Hospitality in Healthcare know where to find forward-thinking senior living professionals that can bring innovative solutions as well as a human touch to your community. Contact our recruiting team to learn how!