Co-creating Humanistic AI AgeTech to Support Dynamic Care Ecosystems: A Preliminary Guiding Model

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Technology Ethics
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Sociology of Aging

Background:

• Digital transformation necessitates technology for successful aging, impacting health, social care, and engagement.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into AgeTech, raising significant ethical concerns.
• Existing AI ethics debates often overlook the relational dynamics within care ecosystems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the ethical, sociological, and technological implications of AI AgeTech within care ecosystems.
• To propose a humanistic framework for developing and utilizing AI AgeTech.
• To guide the co-construction of AI AgeTech that supports successful aging.

Main Methods:

• Co-construction of intersectional care experiences by a transdisciplinary working group.
• Development of a preliminary guiding model for AI AgeTech innovation.
• Utilizing visual probes, tools, and techniques for practical application.

Main Results:

• AI AgeTech acts as a semi-autonomous actor influencing functioning and relationships within care ecosystems.
• A model is proposed that integrates humanistic attributes, values, and design orientations.
• The model captures the complexities of dynamic care ecosystems involving older adults, care partners, and service providers.

Conclusions:

• A humanistic approach is essential for navigating AI AgeTech's ethical and social complexities.
• The developed model provides a framework for responsible AI AgeTech innovation.
• Promoting successful aging requires a nuanced understanding of AI AgeTech's role in evolving care arrangements.