Back

OpenAI and AARP Begin AI Safety Workshop Tour for Older Adults

lite News Desk 2 min read

At a glance

  • OpenAI and AARP launched a ChatGPT workshop road-tour on September 16, 2026.
  • The tour includes free sessions in 10 U.S. cities for older adults.
  • Senior Planet’s Digital Discovery Lab provides mobile training facilities.

OpenAI and AARP started a series of in-person ChatGPT workshops on September 16, 2026, aiming to help older adults use artificial intelligence tools safely and effectively in daily life.

The workshops are designed to improve participants’ ability to use ChatGPT, with a focus on identifying scams and preventing fraud. Sessions are being held in ten cities across the United States and are offered at no cost to attendees.

The initiative is organized in partnership with AARP’s Senior Planet and Older Adults Technology Services, which supply the Digital Discovery Lab for hands-on training and educational support. The mobile lab travels to each city, providing access to equipment and instruction for older adults interested in learning about AI.

OpenAI and AARP have been working together since 2025 on projects aimed at increasing AI literacy among older adults. Their collaboration includes safety training, educational videos, privacy-focused courses, and subgrants intended to broaden the reach of AI education.

What the numbers show

  • The road-tour began on September 16, 2026.
  • Workshops are scheduled in 10 cities across the United States.
  • The partnership between OpenAI and AARP started in 2025.

As part of the ongoing partnership, OpenAI Academy released a video in 2025 that demonstrates how older adults can use ChatGPT to recognize and avoid scams. This video is one component of the broader educational campaign targeting online safety for seniors.

The workshops are structured to help attendees gain confidence in using AI tools, with practical exercises and guidance from trainers. The focus is on real-world applications, such as using ChatGPT for safe communication and information verification.

Senior Planet’s Digital Discovery Lab plays a central role in delivering these workshops, offering mobile access to technology and tailored instruction. The collaboration aims to address the specific needs of older adults by providing resources and support in accessible community locations.

Through these efforts, OpenAI and AARP continue their multi-year strategy to equip older adults with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate digital environments safely. The initiative combines in-person events, online resources, and ongoing educational programs to support AI literacy among seniors.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.

More from Artificial Intelligence

  1. A new AI framework standardizes medication data in electronic health records. This aims to enhance health analytics, according to researchers.

  2. A meeting is scheduled for September 21, 2026, between the Economy Minister and Telefónica's Chairman, according to reports.

  3. On September 18, LS Group showcased 19 AI projects at its Future Day event, highlighting innovation and productivity, according to company reports.

  4. AI adoption in developed economies is at 15-20%, with call center jobs declining significantly, according to Goldman Sachs Research findings.

  5. Anthropic is evaluating a new AI model ahead of its IPO, responding to OpenAI's GPT-6 Astra launch on September 3, 2026, according to reports.