Artificial Intelligence might sound like something reserved for tech enthusiasts or office workers — but more and more UK adults over 50 are discovering how AI can help with everyday life. Whether it’s stretching a budget, simplifying tasks, or exploring new hobbies, today’s AI tools are proving surprisingly helpful.
Here’s how people nearing or enjoying retirement are starting to embrace AI — and how you can try it too.
Budgeting and financial planning
AI-powered budgeting apps can automatically analyse your spending and suggest ways to save. Tools like Emma, Moneyhub, or Snoop use smart algorithms to highlight subscriptions you no longer use or flag unusual charges.
Some apps also generate savings goals or show forecasts for your pension and savings based on your lifestyle.
Try it: Use Emma or Snoop to link your bank accounts and get weekly money-saving insights.
💡 Read our article on how to manage your retirement budget
Saving time with everyday admin
AI chatbots and virtual assistants (like ChatGPT or Google Bard) are helping people:
- Draft letters (including to pension providers or the council)
- Summarise long documents
- Generate travel itineraries
- Translate text or write in clearer English
You don’t need to install anything — just visit a website and ask your question.
Try it: Ask ChatGPT to “write a letter to my pension provider to request a breakdown of payments” — or use our free PDF letter template generator to get started.
Planning holidays and travel
Tools like AI itinerary planners can create custom travel plans based on your interests and timeframe. Simply type something like “3-day budget trip to Edinburgh with museums and gardens” — and you’ll get a ready-made plan.
You can also use tools like Google Lens while travelling to translate signs, identify landmarks, or scan restaurant menus.
Try it: Type your destination into ChatGPT or Trip Planner AI and ask for an itinerary that matches your energy level and interests.
Learning new hobbies or skills
From learning to cook something new to picking up photography or painting, AI tools can give step-by-step guidance. You can even find apps that give you instant feedback on language pronunciation, sketching, or writing.
And if you’re feeling creative, tools like Canva’s AI design features can help you make birthday cards, invitations, or printables without needing design skills.
Try it: Explore YouTube summaries or get hobby project ideas via AI search tools like Perplexity.ai or Claude.
Getting smarter with online deals
AI can also help with smart spending. Browser extensions like Honey or Pouch automatically apply voucher codes at checkout. Some price-tracking tools use AI to alert you when flights or purchases drop in price.
Try it: Use Honey when shopping online to test voucher codes instantly. Or compare energy and broadband deals via AI-supported comparison tools.
💡 Check our latest offers and deals section for more money-saving ideas.
Final thoughts
You don’t have to be a tech expert to benefit from AI. A growing number of people in the UK over 50 are using it to save money, make decisions faster, and explore new possibilities. The key is to start simple — and explore one tool at a time.
