How Will AI Impact Older Professionals in the Near Future?
Posted on April 10, 2025 by Millree Williams, One of Thousands of Retirement Coaches on Noomii.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not going away. It's here to stay and it may be affecting older employees in the workplace.
How Will AI Impact Older Professionals in the Near Future?
Artificial Intelligence is now ubiquitous in our world. You will find it in nearly every profession – from manufacturing to healthcare, science to law, and social justice to construction. And, in everyday use in nearly every profession in between. We are intrigued by its potential and anxious about its application. Recently, I have been wondering about how AI can impact the livelihood of older professionals.
The impact of AI on older professionals can vary depending on the specific industry and profession. However, here are some potential ways in which AI may pose a threat to the careers of older professionals:
1. Automation of jobs: AI has the potential to automate many jobs that are currently performed by humans. This can impact older professionals who may not have the technology skills or knowledge to adapt to the changing job market.
2. Changing job requirements: As AI continues to evolve, it may change the requirements for certain professions. For example, jobs in the healthcare sector may require more knowledge of AI and machine learning in the future. Older professionals may struggle to keep up with these changing requirements, putting them at a disadvantage in the job market.
3. Bias based on age: Unfortunately, age discrimination can be a problem in some industries. Older professionals may find it difficult to compete with younger job seekers who have more experience working with AI and other advanced technologies.
4. Up-skilling challenges: While up-skilling is important for staying relevant in the job market, older professionals may find it more difficult to adapt to new technologies and learn new skills. This can put them at a disadvantage when competing for jobs with younger, tech-savvy professionals.
5. Lack of opportunities: In some industries, older professionals may find it difficult to find new job opportunities. This can be especially true in industries that are rapidly changing due to the adoption of AI and other advanced technologies.
It is important to note, however, that AI can also create new job opportunities for older professionals in some industries. We must all learn to embrace this new visitor to our homes. Do some research on how it can be used in your life. Take a course. Load a free version of an artificial intelligence app (like ChatGPT or Hello AI) onto your laptop or phone and just play with it.
Additionally, some companies are working to reduce age bias and create more opportunities for older professionals in the workplace. Ultimately, the impact of AI on older professionals will depend on many factors, including the specific industry and profession, level of experience and comfort, and the willingness to adapt to new technologies.
