News
October 05, 2025
Even more than kids, it’s our Boomer parents who need protecting from AI slop
Older adults are uniquely at risk from bot-designed, addictive online content. Cognitive decline can affect self-control and compulsive behaviour – a perfect recipe for endless scrolling.
Boomers, Not Just Kids, Vulnerable to AI-Driven Online Addiction
While concerns about children's exposure to harmful online content are widespread, a growing body of evidence suggests that older adults, particularly Baby Boomers, are uniquely susceptible to the addictive nature of AI-generated online "slop." This isn't about a lack of tech-savviness; instead, it's a complex interplay of cognitive changes and the persuasive power of algorithms designed to keep users glued to their screens.
The problem lies in the insidious combination of readily available, often low-quality, online content and the subtle cognitive shifts that can occur with age. As we get older, certain cognitive functions, including impulse control and decision-making, can naturally decline. This can make it harder to resist the allure of endless scrolling, especially when the content is carefully curated by sophisticated AI to trigger specific emotional responses and keep users engaged.
Think about it: articles crafted to confirm pre-existing beliefs, videos designed to evoke outrage, or social media feeds filled with strategically placed advertisements. These are all examples of AI-driven content designed to grab and hold attention. For someone experiencing even mild cognitive decline, resisting the urge to keep watching, reading, or clicking can become a significant challenge.
This vulnerability can lead to compulsive online behavior, where individuals spend hours upon hours consuming information, often to the detriment of other activities and relationships. The consequences can range from neglecting hobbies and social connections to falling prey to online scams and misinformation.
Experts emphasize that this isn't about blaming older adults. Instead, it’s about recognizing a potential risk and taking proactive steps to mitigate it. Raising awareness among Boomers and their families is crucial. Simple strategies, such as setting time limits for online activities, being mindful of the types of content consumed, and actively seeking out offline activities, can make a significant difference. Furthermore, tech companies have a responsibility to design algorithms that prioritize user well-being over engagement metrics, and to flag potentially harmful or misleading content more effectively. Protecting our Boomer parents from the addictive nature of AI-driven online "slop" requires a multi-faceted approach, combining individual responsibility, technological innovation, and societal awareness.
While concerns about children's exposure to harmful online content are widespread, a growing body of evidence suggests that older adults, particularly Baby Boomers, are uniquely susceptible to the addictive nature of AI-generated online "slop." This isn't about a lack of tech-savviness; instead, it's a complex interplay of cognitive changes and the persuasive power of algorithms designed to keep users glued to their screens.
The problem lies in the insidious combination of readily available, often low-quality, online content and the subtle cognitive shifts that can occur with age. As we get older, certain cognitive functions, including impulse control and decision-making, can naturally decline. This can make it harder to resist the allure of endless scrolling, especially when the content is carefully curated by sophisticated AI to trigger specific emotional responses and keep users engaged.
Think about it: articles crafted to confirm pre-existing beliefs, videos designed to evoke outrage, or social media feeds filled with strategically placed advertisements. These are all examples of AI-driven content designed to grab and hold attention. For someone experiencing even mild cognitive decline, resisting the urge to keep watching, reading, or clicking can become a significant challenge.
This vulnerability can lead to compulsive online behavior, where individuals spend hours upon hours consuming information, often to the detriment of other activities and relationships. The consequences can range from neglecting hobbies and social connections to falling prey to online scams and misinformation.
Experts emphasize that this isn't about blaming older adults. Instead, it’s about recognizing a potential risk and taking proactive steps to mitigate it. Raising awareness among Boomers and their families is crucial. Simple strategies, such as setting time limits for online activities, being mindful of the types of content consumed, and actively seeking out offline activities, can make a significant difference. Furthermore, tech companies have a responsibility to design algorithms that prioritize user well-being over engagement metrics, and to flag potentially harmful or misleading content more effectively. Protecting our Boomer parents from the addictive nature of AI-driven online "slop" requires a multi-faceted approach, combining individual responsibility, technological innovation, and societal awareness.
Category:
Entertainment