Over 45 and looking for a job? AI thinks you might be too old
A recent study highlights that large language models like ChatGPT exhibit age bias, favoring younger workers in recruitment suggestions. Surveys show persistent age discrimination among HR professionals, with many reluctant to hire older employees. As AI tools become more integrated into hiring processes, older workers may face increased barriers while legal frameworks lag behind technological advances.
- ▪The World Health Organization projects that people over 60 will rise from 12% to 22% of the global population by 2050, yet workplace practices have not kept pace with this demographic shift.
- ▪A 2025 survey by the Australian Human Resources Institute found that 18% of HR professionals would not consider hiring workers aged 65 and over, and 24% view those aged 51‑55 as "older."
- ▪Research by Alysia Blackham of the University of Melbourne demonstrated that ChatGPT recommends hiring age ranges that exclude workers over 45, using language that may deter older applicants.
- ▪The study warns that as AI-driven recruitment tools become commonplace, embedded age bias could exacerbate workplace discrimination, while existing laws struggle to address these emerging challenges.
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May 29, 2026 Over 45 and looking for a job? AI thinks you might be too old by Alysia Blackham, University of Melbourne edited by Sadie Harley, reviewed by Andrew Zinin Sadie Harley Scientific Editor Meet our editorial team Behind our editorial process Andrew Zinin Lead Editor Meet our editorial team Behind our editorial process Editors' notes This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked trusted source proofread The GIST Add as preferred source Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain The aging population is a global success story. People are, on average, living longer, healthier lives.
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