Assistive technologies are becoming essential lifelines that support connectivity and social presence. But how do they impact cognitive functions like memory and attention, and how does their impact shift as we age?

In this episode, we explore the intersections of AI and cognitive psychology; a field where technology is revolutionizing everything from the early diagnosis of cognitive decline to the use of gamified brain training and AI social companions.

We are joined by cognitive psychologist Mary Bennett, who offers a rare dual perspective. Together, we unpack:

• The Vital Connection: How technology keeps older adults cognitively healthy and socially integrated.

• Cognitive Enhancement: The real-world impact of digital tools on memory, focus, and overall brain health.

• The Divide: Why the same technology may impact users in vastly different ways.

• Personal Insight: Mary shares her professional expertise alongside her own lived experience navigating the world with assistive technologies.

Welcome to the fifth episode of The Silver lAIning, a SAINTS Podcast. Hope you enjoyed our previous conversation with Professor Ibrahim Habli and Dr. Laura Fearnley, where we explored the ethics of AI and the emerging threat of AI-driven psychological harm. During that episode, we referenced the ground-breaking work of Decision Scientist and Policy Analyst Professor Magda Osman.

In this episode we unpack the big question: How do we protect older adults from psychological harm when experts can’t even agree on its definition in a digital age?

We also explore the many pathways to psychological impact from smart technologies, how this applies to AI and older people, the challenges with its measurement and some recommendations for researchers and policy makers, as we navigate an increasing number of IoT devices in everyday living.

How has our understanding of AI safety, harm, and risk shifted with the application of AI in everyday technologies?

In Episode 4 of The Silver LAIning, we explore why assistive technologies must be classified as safety-critical and whether a system can truly be considered "safe" if it lacks an ethical foundation.

Joining us for this deep dive are Professor Ibrahim Habli (Director of the UKRI AI SAINTS CDT) and Dr. Laura Fearnley (Research Co-Lead for SAINTS). Together, they offer candid insights into how interdisciplinary collaboration is the key to navigating the most pressing risks in the AI landscape.