I'm experimenting with AI in my 70s. I've had to adapt to new technologies my entire career — those who embrace change survive.

As a retiree who has witnessed numerous technological shifts, I find the rise of AI tools to be a fascinating development rather than a cause for concern. My journey began in the early 1990s, when I stumbled upon an article about the internet that ignited my curiosity. That initial spark led me to explore this new frontier, ultimately connecting with people across the globe through dial-up internet. Having spent three decades in the legal field before retiring in 2020, I was pleasantly surprised by the release of ChatGPT in 2022. While many feared a dystopian future dominated by robots, I was eager to explore the potential of AI. Now, I utilize AI daily as a personal assistant, enhancing my retirement experience without the pressures of workplace integration. Throughout my legal career, I learned the value of adapting to change. In 1982, as typewriters began to fade away, I embraced the shift to digital technologies. This willingness to adopt new tools allowed me to automate various aspects of my work, from timekeeping to document creation, enabling me to complete tasks efficiently. Even in retirement, my enthusiasm for technology persists. Initially, I treated ChatGPT like a new gadget, but as I discovered its capabilities, it became an indispensable tool. Now, I rely on AI assistants like Claude for quick information retrieval, making my life easier and more connected. For instance, Claude recently helped me verify WiFi availability at a Veterans Affairs hospital while I was driving a friend there. Despite the concerns surrounding AI and job displacement, my friends and I, who have seen technology evolve over the years, generally welcome its benefits. Many of us enjoy the advantages of AI without fear of job loss, especially since we are no longer part of the workforce. While some worry about the implications for future generations, most of my peers appreciate the convenience AI brings to our daily lives. I recognize that AI has the potential to transform various professions, including law, where it can streamline research and writing tasks. However, I believe that the human element of client interactions and courtroom appearances will remain vital. As a retiree, I view AI as a tool that enhances my life rather than a threat, and I encourage those still working to embrace these advancements. Adaptation has always been key to survival, and those who learn to harness AI will likely thrive in this new landscape.