Free AI Workshops coming to Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre Oct. 18

Tailored specifically for seniors and individuals interested in digital literacy, a free workshop series aims to teach local residents how to safely harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) in their daily lives.

Hosted by the Memory Loss Foundation, these community sessions combine live demonstrations, essential digital safety rules, and practical advice to build digital confidence.

The workshops, supported by the City of Belleville, starts on October 18 at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre.

This marks the first in a series of three free, interactive seminars designed to demystify artificial intelligence for older adults over 50.

AI is like a ‘very helpful neighbour’

The one-hour workshops are led by Einat Sandler, managing director of the Memory Loss Foundation.

“I always tell workshop participants that AI is like a very helpful neighbour,” said Sandler.

“You can ask the same question ten times, and it will not judge you or get impatient. But like any neighbour, you wouldn’t give them your Social Insurance Number or credit card details.”

The seminars share practical tools that can improve everyday life.

Participants will learn about accessibility features, such as voice activated texting, and other easy communication features.

These tools are especially invaluable for those with arthritis or hand tremors.

“Participants will learn that they can ask ChatGPT anything,” Sandler said.

Sandler also conducts live demonstrations on generating recipes, drafting text, and creating images to show both the power of AI and an understanding of how easily misinformation or fake content can be created.

While practical AI applications will be taught, online safety remains a core focus of the program.

“It was something that I heard time after time, that seniors feel overwhelmed. They feel intimidated, they want to try, but they don’t know where to start,” Sandler said.

“At the same time, they are not aware of safety and privacy best practices. They share their social insurance number on ChatGPT,” she said.

Workshop attendees will receive guidance on safeguarding personal information, identifying potential online scams, and understanding privacy boundaries when interacting with digital assistants.

Participants will also receive a helpful reference booklet featuring ten golden rules for staying safe online.

Two additional sessions will follow: an online seminar held during the winter months for those with mobility constraints, and a second in-person workshop scheduled for May 2, 2027.

Learn more about the Memory Loss Foundation by visiting their website here. Space is limited to 40 participants per session.

Register early by emailing [email protected] to reserve your spot.