Retired Baby Boomers Spending Lots of Time Online, Using Tech or AI
Business Insider • • general
Key Points:
- Retirees like Brian Rezendes are increasingly embracing AI technologies, spending much of their retirement building apps, interacting with chatbots, and exploring digital tools, reflecting a shift from traditional retirement activities to tech engagement.
- Surveys show a significant rise in tech use among older Americans, with smartphone ownership jumping to 90% for those aged 50-plus and AI adoption nearly doubling from 18% to 30% between 2024 and 2025.
- Many retirees use AI and age tech not only for entertainment but also to manage health, maintain independence, and stay socially connected, though some acknowledge risks such as reduced physical activity and overreliance on technology.
- The age-tech market is booming, projected to reach $120 billion by 2030, driven by demand for smart home devices, companion robots, and AI tools aimed at easing caregiving burdens and addressing cognitive decline among older adults.
- Despite concerns about loneliness and screen addiction, many older adults find technology enhances their quality of life, enabling them to stay active, learn new skills, and maintain social connections well into their 80s and beyond.