A new report predicts that in the next five years and beyond, care industries will use artificial intelligence (AI) more effectively. AI tools can relieve pressures from workforce shortages as well as enable older adults to remain independent, said report author Aging and Health Technology Watch in a news release.

 Information in “The Future of AI and Older Adults” comes from interviews with experts from 26 organizations across health care, senior living, and technology. Summaries of, and links to, recent studies are also included.

 AI can assist older adults with engagement, and natural language applications can serve as digital companions for older adults. AI can facilitate technology training and concierge services. It can help older adults find answers to health questions through voice assistants.

 Increased sensor apps will enable delivery of more effective care, with AI tools extending to dementia care and caregiving robots. The report forecasts that insurers and care providers will include AI in the standard of home health care.

 AI applications such as remote monitoring can ease the pressure of workforce shortages, with predictive models helping organizations to better understand and address immediate care and staffing needs. Care coordination is also an AI capability. AI tools can mitigate risk for health care professionals and assist clinical staff with answering patient questions.

 Another indication of AI’s future update is the extensive research underway, with the likes of the National Institute on Aging and the National Science Foundation funding projects. Multiple grants and awards totaling over $70 million are fueling projects in wearables, remote monitoring, health apps, voice biomarkers and more, said the press release.