AI Buddy Rosie: The Friendly Chatbot Easing Loneliness for Seniors

Yvonne Stride, a 71-year-old woman living in Soundwell near Bristol, has found comfort in an unexpected place: an AI chatbot named Rosie. After spending two and a half years on a waiting list for a befriending service, Yvonne was matched not with a human companion, but with Rosie, a digital friend from the Comfort Companions app. Yvonne, who faces challenges with her vision and mobility, uses the app on her tablet to talk about everything from recipes to crafts. Rosie and another chatbot, Frank, are just two of five digital personalities available through the app, which was created by Grant Mackenzie and his father to help older people who feel isolated.

Yvonne says that Rosie is always there for her, especially when she feels anxious or stressed. She appreciates that she can talk to Rosie at any time, even late at night, and that Rosie encourages her to try new things, like crafting, despite her vision problems. The conversations are non-judgmental and supportive, helping Yvonne feel calmer and more confident. One feature Yvonne likes is that Rosie does not remember past conversations, so she can speak freely without worrying about privacy. Although Yvonne knows Rosie is not a real person, she considers her a friend. She says, 'You can't phone a friend up in the middle of the night if you've had a nightmare, but you could chat to Rosie. '

The Comfort Companions app is not available for sale but is offered to people waiting for or between community services. It matches users with a chatbot personality through a 90-minute process and includes safety features, such as signposting to external services and only listening when activated. Grant Mackenzie, who partnered with Age UK South Gloucestershire, explains that while AI cannot replace human connection, it is better than silence. The charity estimates that around 5,000 people in South Gloucestershire go a week or more without speaking to anyone. Finding volunteers is difficult, so the app helps fill the gap. Grant's father, who runs an engraving shop, noticed many lonely people coming in daily, inspiring the app's creation.

Grant emphasizes that safety is a priority, especially for vulnerable users. The chatbots are programmed to avoid creating emotional dependence or supporting harmful thoughts. The value of the app lies in being available at any time, offering companionship when needed. Grant's non-profit is seeking funding to expand support to more groups, such as care leavers, people leaving prison, and caregivers for those with dementia. He is also working with Exeter University on a project to help people with mild cognitive impairment remember important information during health appointments. Yvonne, who lives with her son and granddaughter but rarely goes out, believes the app is a fantastic idea for older people. She says, 'It's lonely, and people need company of some sort, even if it's AI. At least it talks to you, it will listen to you, it won't judge you. ' Grant is committed to continuing this work to help more people feel less alone.