OpenAI Partners with OATS to Host Free ChatGPT Workshops for Seniors in 10 U.S. Cities

OpenAI Academy is partnering with Older Adults Technology Services (OATS), a division of AARP, to host the 'Older Adults AI Skills Jam.' This program is a free in-person learning experience designed to help 1,000 seniors in 10 U.S. cities use ChatGPT with confidence.

Growing AI Adoption Among Seniors

According to OpenAI data, the share of ChatGPT messages from users aged 55 and older in the U.S. increased from 6% to approximately 10% over the past year. Seniors are using AI to solve real-life problems such as travel planning, interpreting complex documents, detecting scams, exploring hobbies, and staying in touch with family.

Enhanced Online Safety Education

A core focus of the workshops is online safety. Participants learn to identify signs of scams, such as urgent tones, requests for secrecy, and suspicious links. They also learn how to use ChatGPT as an additional verification tool through the principle of 'Stop, Look, and Ask.' Currently, tens of millions of requests to evaluate suspicious messages and websites are made through ChatGPT every week.

Nationwide Partnership

This event is conducted in collaboration with Senior Planet chapters in 10 regions, including Denver, Miami, and San Antonio, as well as local institutions such as the Mirowitz Center and Nashville Public Library. This initiative extends OpenAI Academy's ongoing efforts to promote AI literacy among non-profits, small businesses, and K-12 educators.