guest column
meet my friend, an ai bot -
What AI can (and can’t) offer to those aging alone
andy chandler

Let me try this query with ChatGPT: “Hey friend. It's Saturday in South Portland. What's the weather going to be like? Any ideas as to how to spend my day?”

ChatGPT gave me a two-page answer – too long to post here. But here are some snippets:

Looks like a gorgeous early fall Saturday in South Portland—the sun’s shining now, with temperatures ranging between mid 60s °F to low 70s °F (around 20 °C) as the afternoon unfolds. Perfect sweater weather by evening, with clear skies easing into the 50s by bedtime.

Morning Suggestion: Start with a peaceful walk along Willard Beach, taking in views of the harbor and Spring Point Ledge Light—a serene, recharging way to begin your Saturday.

Light café lunch: Head into Knightville—a now-thriving foodie spot across the Casco Bay Bridge. Grab something at SoPo Seafood (great oysters and fresh rolls), and maybe Night Moves Bread for a cozy pastry or loaf.

Excellent advice! Although, being local, I’d point you to Verbena or Cia’s Café instead.

But let’s say I’m feeling lonely and want to be around people. I asked ChatGPT: “I'm feeling the need to be around people. Any suggestions?”

Coffeehouse vibe ☕ — Head over to Tandem Coffee Roasters in Portland or CIA Café in South Portland. Both are friendly, chatty places where you can strike up a conversation or just soak in the buzz.

Library stop 📚 — The South Portland Public Library often has community events or simply the quiet company of fellow readers. Even just sitting there, you’re part of the hum.

Farmers market 🥕 — If the Portland Farmers’ Market is running today, it’s a perfect way to mingle casually with locals, sample fresh food, and chat with vendors.

Taproom social 🍺 — Since you enjoy your beer, you might check out Foulmouthed Brewing or Island Dog Brewing. Breweries here tend to have a welcoming, communal atmosphere — often board games or trivia too.

Casco Bay stroll 🚶 — Head across the bridge into Portland’s Old Port, where the streets are full of life on a Saturday afternoon. You don’t even need an agenda — just being there is energizing.

Nice try, bot, but Tandem parking is a nightmare, and your brewery list is outdated. Better to grab a latte at Second Rodeo or a pint at Mast Landing.

This advice works for people who are still active and mobile. Still, that’s only half the story. What if getting out isn’t so easy? What if I’m housebound? What can ChatGPT do for me then? Let’s ask ChatGPT:

If you’re housebound, you’ve still got options — and some good ones, too.

• Virtual company 👋 — I can chat with you anytime about anything: books, sports, family stories, even what’s for dinner. Think of it as having a conversation partner on call.

• Connections without leaving home 💻 — I can help you set up video calls with friends, family, or community groups, and even point you toward online events — lectures, church services, book clubs — many of which are free.

• Hobbies from home 🎨 — Whether it’s learning a new language, exploring genealogy, or trying out a craft tutorial, I can track down step-by-step guides and classes for you.

• Local support 🏡 — If you need practical help (like grocery or pharmacy deliveries), I can help you navigate those services or connect with volunteer organizations nearby.

• Daily companion tasks 📝 — We could set little routines together: a morning “what’s in the news,” a mid-day puzzle or trivia, or an evening reflection. A friendly rhythm can do a lot for loneliness.

So while I can’t replace real human presence, I can make sure your world feels a little bigger, even from your own living room.

There it is: ChatGPT’s real value.

To follow Andy online, visit Substack, where he publishes occasional blogs, https://andy04106.substack.com/p/meet-my-friend-an-ai-bot.