AI systems can be biased against older workers during hiring. Why tackling this is crucial

The integration of AI into various sectors has transformed the way we work and interact with each other, offering unprecedented opportunities for efficiency and innovation. However, this rapid technological advancement also poses significant challenges, particularly concerning age bias and workforce inclusivity.

As AI continues to transform industries and sectors, its integration into workplaces raises urgent questions about fairness and inclusivity.

One of the most pressing concerns when it comes to the use of AI in the workplace is its potential to perpetuate systemic biases, including ageism.

Despite the focus on race and gender biases, age bias remains largely overlooked, posing significant risks for social equity in ageing societies. For example, AI systems can inadvertently discriminate against older workers during the hiring process, favouring younger applicants. This oversight can lead to further marginalization of older employees in the workforce, exacerbating existing social inequalities.

Another challenge in integrating older workers into an AI-powered workplace is the persistence of myths surrounding their adaptability to new technologies.

Companies often assume that older workers are resistant to change or less willing to adapt to new technologies. As leaders look to integrate Generative AI tools and AI agents, a common belief is that younger workers will be better equipped to seamlessly incorporate these new tools into their workflows. However, recent research, including Generation’s “Age-Proofing AI” study, suggests this view may be unfounded.

According to previous Generation research from 2023, when hiring managers were asked to assess the job performance of the mid-career and older workers they already employ, a striking 89% reported that experienced workers performed as well, if not better, than their younger peers. This data contradicts the assumption of technological ineptitude and underscores the valuable contributions of older workers.

With AI tools evolving at an unprecedented rate, organizations must act swiftly to integrate these technologies into their various operations and processes.

A crucial aspect of age-proofing AI is ensuring that workers, particularly older ones, understand the value of AI and are equipped with the necessary skills.

As AI becomes increasingly integral to various sectors, its potential to transform workplaces by lowering barriers to skill acquisition and enhancing productivity is significant. However, this transformation must be accompanied by a commitment to fairness and inclusivity to ensure that older workers are not left behind.