And to the rescue. Will technology help overcome the demographic crisis?
In the face of the global challenge, which is the aging of societies, new technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), can play a key role in minimizing the negative demographic effects. Mateusz Tułecki, a sociologist and organizer of the festival PL: ON.
An aging society is not only a challenge but also a chance. As Mateusz Tułecki notes on the YouTube channel, “an aging society is less young people, and thus – less hands to work.” However, thanks to new technologies, it is possible to generate the same level of economic development with fewer employees. Automation of repetitive tasks, optimization of processes and the development of artificial intelligence allow you to increase work efficiency, which can compensate for labor shortages.
– If we are able to generate the same level of economic development with fewer employees, using new technologies to optimize processes and increase state profits, then we can minimize the adverse effects of the aging of society to some extent – emphasizes Tułecki.
Whole conversation:
Seniors in the world of technology
Technologies not only support the economy, but also help seniors to remain active. “New technologies help because older people can remain active on the labor market for longer. They can also maintain better relationships with their family, being in constant contact,” notes the sociologist. Thanks to communication applications, educational platforms or devices that facilitate everyday life, seniors can be more independent and socially involved.
Tułecki also mentions his vision of the Polish Senior Championships in the use of new technologies, where young people, e.g. grandchildren, would play the role of trainers. Although this idea has not yet been implemented, it shows how technology can combine generations, teaching seniors new skills and building intergenerational bridges.
Education with the key to success
However, the implementation of technology in an aging society requires education and a conscious approach. Tułecki emphasizes that the key to reducing the fears of new technologies is to show their positive applications.
– Education and showing the positive pages of use of specific technologies are the most important – he said.
Responsible use of AI and other innovations can not only increase efficiency, but also open new opportunities for creativity and development.
Pl: On – Festival of Innovation and Dialogue
To promote the responsible use of technology and build a dialogue between generations, Tułecki organizes the PL: ON Festival, which will take place on June 11-13, 2025 in Olsztyn. The event will gather representatives of business, science, local government and young people to jointly discuss the role of technology in the future.
“We want every participant to leave with a completely new look,” the organizer announces.
The festival is to be a place to exchange knowledge, establish relationships and go beyond information bubbles that limit our perception of the world.
As Tułecki notes, “technological development in itself is not a threat if it is conducted in a certain way.” Thanks to technologies, we can not only counteract the challenges of an aging society, but also build a more integrated and creative society, ready for the future.
