Eight in ten adults 50-plus report having used some form of AI, though most place themselves at the beginner or intermediate level according to a recent “data story” released by AARP Research.

AARP’s data story explores Artificial Intelligence awareness and usage among older adults along with beliefs about how the technology overlaps with a number of areas, including jobs and human connection.

Optimism about AI’s potential is tempered by strong concerns. Nearly three-quarters (73%) believe AI is advancing faster than ethical policies can keep pace, and about two-thirds (68%) worry that AI could reduce meaningful human interaction in important areas of life. Almost as many (64%) are concerned about its potential to replace human jobs. More than half (51%) believe AI is insecure or unsafe, and four in 10 (39%) say they do not trust it to deliver accurate information or perform tasks reliably.

A large majority (80%) say technology has already made their daily lives more convenient and efficient, and nearly two-thirds (65%) believe AI could be a helpful tool in supporting daily activities and independence. Yet only about half (51%) believe the benefits outweigh the risks, and just 32% feel AI will create more opportunities across generations. This low level of agreement suggests that while some see AI’s promise, many remain uncertain about its broader impact.

See the full AARP data story for more information.