Navigating the future of artificial intelligence technologies for improving the care of older adults

摘要

The rapid aging of the global population presents complex challenges for health systems, families, and societies. Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies-from predictive analytics and conversational agents to robotic caregivers and remote monitoring-offer scalable solutions to support older adults throughout their life courses. This article examines the evolving landscape of AI-enabled care for aging populations, structured around the geriatric 4Ms: what Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility. We synthesize current evidence on the application of AI in personalized medicine, cognitive support, fall detection, and chronic disease management while exploring the cultural, economic, and policy contexts that influence technology adoption. The market for age-related technology is expanding; however, disparities in access, digital literacy, and algorithmic bias risk exacerbating inequities. We identify persistent gaps in implementation, including the underrepresentation of diverse older adults in training data sets, limited longitudinal studies, and a lack of integration across diagnostic and therapeutic systems. We propose a future research agenda centered on five priorities: (1) establishing life-course AI research agendas, (2) promoting inclusive and participatory development processes, (3) advancing gerontological design principles, (4) expanding AI literacy across the aging services workforce, and (5) developing robust ethical and regulatory infrastructures. The article calls for interdisciplinary collaboration among gerontologists, engineers, policymakers, and ethicists to ensure that AI innovations are safe, equitable, and responsive to the lived experiences of older adults. Ultimately, we argue that AI must be implemented not as isolated tools but as components of comprehensive care ecosystems that support aging in place, reduce caregiver burden, and preserve human dignity.