Jason Oliveri Discusses AI Companions in Elder Care and the Risks for LGBTQ+ Residents

Hinshaw partner Jason Oliveri authored a McKnight’s Senior Living guest column discussing the growing role of emotionally intelligent artificial intelligence (AI) companions in elder care and the unique considerations these technologies present for LGBTQ+ residents.

His article examines how AI tools designed to provide companionship and emotional support may help address loneliness and social isolation among older adults, while also raising important questions about privacy, trust, bias, and informed consent.

As senior living providers continue exploring technology-driven resident support, Jason’s column highlights the need for careful oversight to ensure that AI companions are deployed responsibly and inclusively. He also describes how LGBTQ+ residents may face heightened risks when interacting with emotionally intelligent AI systems, particularly where sensitive personal information, identity-based vulnerability, and historical experiences of discrimination are involved.

Additional Resource: Privacy Compliance Playbook for Senior Living Teams

For additional information, read Jason’s related Privacy, Cyber, & AI Decoded alert, which outlines an expansive compliance playbook for deploying AI companions in senior living settings, covering data mapping, consent for cognitively vulnerable adults, vendor controls, durable governance frameworks, and more.

• • “Emotionally Intelligent AI Companions in Elder Care: Why LGBTQ+ Residents Raise the Stakes,” McKnight’s Senior Living, June 21, 2026