Why AI Fears Are Rising Among Retirees
Gabrielle OlyaSun, September 20, 2026 at 8:00 PM GMT+3 3 min read
Many retirees say artificial intelligence is already having a negative effect on their retirement, according to a recent Thrivent survey. The survey found that 29% said AI-driven changes to work have negatively affected their retirement, up from 20% in 2025.
Here's why even retirees are feeling the effects of AI — and why those effects may be getting worse over time.
How AI Could Impact Retirement Finances
Nearly a third of retirees are feeling the effects of the rise of AI, though those impacts can look different from person to person.
"Some retirees may be seeing changes in part-time work opportunities, while others are concerned about how AI could influence the broader economy, labor market or financial markets," said Jason Rogoff, financial advisor at Thrivent. "For many, it's the uncertainty around those changes that's driving concern."
Why More Retirees Are Worried About AI
The survey found that retirees are feeling AI-related changes more now than just a year ago.
"AI has become much more prominent over the past year, which likely explains why more retirees are factoring it into their financial outlook," Rogoff said. "Combined with ongoing concerns about inflation and economic uncertainty, it's easy to see why some people perceive AI as another variable that could affect their retirement security."
Because AI's long-term impact is still unfolding, Rogoff said having a well-rounded financial strategy remains important.
Younger Workers Expect AI To Affect Retirement Savings
Retirees aren't the only ones worried. Many workers believe AI could affect the income they'll depend on to build retirement savings in the years ahead.
According to the survey, 63% of Gen Z workers and 59% of millennials expect AI to negatively affect their retirement through job losses. That's significantly higher than the 49% of Gen Xers and baby boomers who share the same concern.
"Younger workers may be more concerned because they have a longer time horizon and more future earning years potentially affected by technological change," Rogoff said. "They're likely thinking not only about today's job market, but also how AI could influence career growth, income potential and retirement savings over the next several decades."
How Retirees Can Protect Their Financial Security
While the full impact of AI on retirement remains uncertain, experts say retirees should focus on the financial fundamentals they can control.
"Retirees should regularly review their spending, income sources and withdrawal strategy to make sure their plan still fits their goals," Rogoff said. "Rather than reacting to any single trend, including AI, it's important to focus on building a retirement strategy that can weather a range of economic and market conditions."
Retirees who plan to work part time or earn additional income may also want to consider how changes in the labor market could affect those plans.
"A flexible plan can help retirees adapt as technology, markets and personal circumstances continue to evolve," Rogoff said.
How Workers Can Prepare for AI-Related Job Changes
For workers worried about AI's effect on their careers and retirement savings, experts said the core principles of financial planning remain unchanged.
"Keep saving, maintain an emergency fund and revisit your plan regularly," Rogoff said. "Starting to save for retirement as early as possible — even in small amounts — can pay major dividends over the long term."
He also recommends creating a flexible financial plan.
"If concerns about AI or other workplace changes are creating uncertainty, consider stress-testing your plan under different income scenarios," Rogoff said. "Understanding how your plan holds up in a range of situations can help you make more informed decisions and stay focused on long-term goals."
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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