Tag: AI tools

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming part of the conversation across the aging services landscape, and CCaH organizations are beginning to explore what it might mean for marketing, operations and strategic decision-making. While many teams are still in the early stages of adoption, the pace of innovation is accelerating, making it increasingly important for leaders to understand where AI is headed and how it might support their work.

That was the focus of a recent presentation by Zack Collevechio, Senior Data Scientist at WildFig and Pavone Group, during Varsity’s most recent Age-in-Place Roundtable. Below are a few Fresh Perspectives from his discussion.

THE AI LANDSCAPE IS MOVING FAST – Major technology companies like OpenAI, Anthropic and Google are releasing new AI models at a rapid pace. Many of the most advanced tools available today didn’t exist just a few months ago, which means the capabilities of AI are improving almost continuously.

NOT ALL AI TOOLS ARE THE SAME – Platforms like ChatGPT, Claude and Google’s Gemini each have different strengths. Some models are better for research, others for writing or media generation. Teams may benefit from experimenting with multiple tools rather than relying on a single platform.

AI CAN HANDLE MORE COMPLEX TASKS – While many people still think of AI as a chatbot that writes emails or blog posts, today’s models can analyze large documents, summarize complex information and support more advanced workflows.

CONTEXT, MEMORY AND AGENTS ARE CHANGING THE GAME – New AI capabilities include larger context windows (which allow tools to process far more information), built-in memory that remembers preferences and templates, and “agentic workflows” where AI can complete tasks more independently.

EXPERIMENT, BUT VERIFY – AI is a powerful tool, but it’s not perfect. Hallucinations can still occur, particularly with niche topics, so human review and fact-checking remain essential.

PRIVACY AND DATA PROTECTION MATTER – Free AI tools may use prompts and inputs to train their models, while paid subscriptions often offer stronger privacy controls. Organizations should consider how data is handled when selecting tools.

Inventing isn’t just for the young—or the tech-savvy. Brian Fried, accomplished inventor, author, and founder and CEO of Inventor Smart, proves that creativity and innovation can thrive at any age. With more than 15 patents and nearly 20 years of experience coaching inventors, Brian has built a career helping people turn everyday ideas into real-world success stories.

On a recent episode of Varsity’s podcast, Roundtable Talk, Brian shared what inspires older adults to pursue invention later in life and the satisfaction that comes from seeing their ideas come to life. He discussed the biggest myths about inventing, the power of simple problem-solving, and how digital tools like AI and 3D printing are revolutionizing the process.

The following are some fresh perspectives from the conversation. Check out the full episode here. 

WHAT MOTIVATES OLDER ADULTS TO PURSUE INVENTION?

Maybe they’re bored and realize they have a better way to do something and they have the time and some funds. Others want to leave a legacy. Maybe build a company they can leave for their family. It’s very interesting to see seniors say, “You know what, I want to give this a shot.” And it’s fun, I get a chance to do it with them.

WHAT ARE COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS THAT HOLD PEOPLE BACK?

A lot of people say, “I came up with this great invention. I’m going to make a gazillion dollars, I just want to sell my idea.” It doesn’t necessarily work that way most of the time. We step back and ask: is it something you can call your own? Is it different than what’s out there? Is the window big enough that enough people will buy it to make it worth your time, money, energy and effort?

DO LIFE EXPERIENCES GIVE OLDER ADULTS AN ADVANTAGE?

Yes! One inventor related his invention to his IT background—wires and cable management. Another watched people pour pills and spill them and came up with Pillspoons. Everyday life experiences get that spark in their heads. Anybody can be an inventor. The question is, are you going to stop and work on it?

WHAT’S THE FIRST STEP SOMEONE SHOULD TAKE WITH A NEW IDEA?

Capture that idea. Otherwise, poof, it’s gone. Text yourself, email yourself, tell somebody. Then do a search—Google, images—be real about what’s already out there. If there’s enough of a difference, do a patentability search with a patent attorney or agent to compare your idea to prior art and see if it’s something you can call your own.

Want to hear more from Brian? Check out the full episode of Roundtable Talk for more fresh perspectives. Watch new episodes of Roundtable Talk on the Varsity website and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio.