AI reshapes career prospects for older workers, new study finds

09:15

By: Azzat Manal

AI reshapes career prospects for older workers, new study finds

A new study suggests that the rapid expansion of generative artificial intelligence is increasingly affecting employees aged 55 and older, challenging the widespread belief that AI poses the greatest risk primarily to younger workers.

The research, conducted by the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College, found that older employees in occupations with high exposure to AI are now more likely to leave their jobs—either voluntarily or due to job loss—than they were before the widespread adoption of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT.

According to the study, artificial intelligence could influence older workers through three main pathways. First, automation may replace certain roles, increasing the risk of unemployment or early exit from the labor force. Second, adapting to AI-powered technologies may encourage some employees to switch careers or retire sooner than planned. Third, AI has the potential to extend working lives by improving productivity, increasing earnings, and allowing workers to focus on higher-value and more creative tasks.

Researchers analyzed U.S. labor market data alongside occupational indicators measuring how vulnerable different professions are to AI-driven change. The findings indicate that the employment patterns of older workers shifted noticeably following the emergence of advanced generative AI systems.

Technology-related professions were identified as the most exposed to AI transformation. These include web developers, user experience designers, database engineers, computer programmers, and data scientists. In contrast, occupations involving physical labor or direct personal care—such as mining, industrial manufacturing, and healthcare support—were found to be less susceptible to automation by current AI technologies.

The study also noted that workers in highly AI-exposed occupations are generally more educated and earn higher incomes than those in less exposed sectors. As AI continues to reshape office-based professions, researchers believe the technology could narrow the gap in career longevity between knowledge workers and employees in physically demanding jobs.

The findings come as policymakers continue to debate pension reforms and retirement age adjustments in the United States. Researchers argue that any future changes to retirement policies should consider the growing influence of artificial intelligence on older employees' ability to remain active in the workforce.

Career experts emphasize that older professionals can strengthen their position by embracing AI rather than avoiding it. Learning to use AI tools effectively while developing uniquely human skills—such as leadership, communication, critical thinking, decision-making, relationship building, and problem-solving—can improve long-term employability in an evolving job market.

As artificial intelligence becomes more deeply integrated into workplaces across industries, experts expect continuous learning and adaptability to become essential qualities for employees of all ages.