Can A.I. Make People Feel Less Lonely?

May 28, 2026

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Show notes

For years, caretakers and health officials have been raising alarms about loneliness and social isolation among older Americans.

Eli Saslow, a reporter at The New York Times, tells the story of one woman who is using artificial intelligence to keep her independence, and to keep her company.

Guest: Eli Saslow, a reporter for The New York Times who writes in-depth stories about the impact of major national issues on people’s lives.

Background reading:

At 85, Jan Worrell lived alone on a remote corner of the Washington coast. Could a robot become her companion?

Photo: Ruth Fremson/The New York Times

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