The Enterprise Center and Tech Goes Home Tennessee recently spoke with Parents magazine about the risks of AI-generated content for older adults.
Rachael Morrow, Tech Goes Home’s Curriculum & Trainer Development Lead, and Andrew Schlemmer, Advanced Technology Specialist at The Enterprise Center, shared insights into why older adults may be more vulnerable to online scams—and how tech education classes can make a difference.
“Education is the best defense against digital scams, especially with the rise of AI,” Andrew said. “While seniors don’t need to be AI experts, they must understand that scammers now have powerful new tools. It’s crucial for seniors to learn to be discerning and have a plan to verify who they’re talking to.”
Rachael added that those newer to technology may be particularly at risk.
“Older adults who are new to technology may be more susceptible to false information or scams shared across social media,” she said. “We hear stories in our trainer orientations about people who have fallen victim to unreliable information. That’s why we’ve embedded quizzes and activities into our curriculum to help participants identify AI-generated content.”
Through Tech Goes Home’s statewide network, trainers teach digital skills in community-based settings. Classes cover essential skills like using the Google suite, practicing online safety, and learning how to bank and shop online securely.
Tech Goes Home Tennessee recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, serving more than 18,000 participants across the state, with new classes coming to Georgia and Alabama. The program now includes a network of more than 800 trainers, nearly half of whom are actively leading classes.
Want to learn more about Tech Goes Home? Visit TGHTN.org to explore how to become a trainer or to host a class.
