Alexa can make pensioners feel less lonely and isolated, study finds

It may be emotional, but Alexa seems to be making retirees feel less lonely.

In one study, 57 UK residents aged 65 or over were given an Amazon Echo device to use for a month.

Four out of five of them said the voice assistant made them feel less lonely and isolated.

Before the experiment, 49% of participants said they felt cheerful. But after the first two weeks of use, this percentage rose to 68%, and by the end, 75% felt happier.

The study, commissioned by the tech giant, also found that the device increased feelings of calm and relaxation.

“It makes me feel more confident in using technology, and in some ways it’s a companion to me,” one participant said.

Broadcaster and Strictly star Angela Rippon (pictured), 79, who has teamed up with Amazon to raise awareness of how Alexa helps older people, said she used it to make her own shopping list

The most common task they used Alexa for was checking the weather forecast followed by listening to music and podcasts, keeping up with the news, and answering questions.

One in three used the device to remind them to take their medication at the right time.

Strictly presenter and star Angela Rippon, 79, who has teamed up with Amazon to raise awareness of how Alexa helps older people, said she used it to make her shopping list.

“AI-powered voice services like Alexa can bring family and friends into your home, and because they are voice activated, there is no complicated technology,” she said.

“It’s very easy to use and can answer your questions about the weather — or even how to master the cha-cha.”