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How Kirby Retirees Are Using AI to Simplify Everyday Life

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Healthcare Provider Update: Offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with FSAs, supplemental life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program1. As ACA premiums rise and subsidies expire, Kirbys employer-sponsored plans offer a more stable and cost-effective alternative to marketplace coverage, especially for families. Click here to learn more

'Artificial intelligence is helping many Kirby employees simplify their transition into retirement by organizing finances and daily routines, but the key is to use these tools as support—not substitution—for thoughtful planning and professional guidance.' — Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Kirby employees are finding that AI can streamline everything from budgeting to wellness, but lasting success in retirement comes from combining technology’s efficiency with informed financial decision-making.' — Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

  1. How artificial intelligence (AI) is helping Kirby retirees simplify daily life and handle complex tasks.

  2. The ways AI can enhance health, home, and financial organization in retirement.

  3. Why retirees are increasingly confident using AI to boost efficiency and reclaim valuable time.

Many Kirby retirees are discovering that slowing down isn’t always easy, despite looking for respite from decades of early mornings, complex undertakings, and global operations. Handling investments, planning vacations, and staying organized can still feel demanding during retirement.

That’s where artificial intelligence (AI) has stepped in. What once seemed futuristic is now a practical tool for Kirby’s retired professionals who want to streamline routines and reclaim valuable time.

According to Wealth Enhancement financial planner Kevin Won, CFP®, AWMA®, CRPC®, “we’re seeing older adults experimenting with AI tools for efficiency. They understand that these tools can help them reclaim time, which is one of life’s most precious resources.”

Simplifying Complex Tasks

While still in the workforce, AI is helping Kirby employees transform their daily workflow. Tasks that once took hours—such as reviewing financial reports or tracking industry or market data—now take minutes with the help of AI assistants that can summarize data, highlight key performance trends, and draft personal reports.

Others are using AI to enhance their personal lives. For instance, with an AI-powered trip planner, it's possible to enter your preferred travel destinations, dates, and hobbies, and have the chatbot design an itinerary for you complete with dining, sightseeing, and activity suggestions.

The same is true after retirement. “The retirees I work with value how AI brings order and clarity,” Won adds. “Whether it’s comparing health care options or managing monthly expenses, these tools can handle the heavy lifting so retirees can focus on other areas of their lives.”

Improving Health and Home Management

Many former Kirby professionals are also turning to AI for personal wellness and home organization. Some use chatbots for home maintenance guidance, while others leverage AI to build custom workout plans that adapt to travel schedules or physical limitations. These tools help retirees maintain consistency without needing advanced tech skills or expensive memberships.

According to Won, “AI can give older adults autonomy. They don’t need to wait for instruction or assistance. Technology enables them to take the lead in their daily lives, including finances and health care choices.”

A Modern Assistant for Financial Confidence

Retirees can also use AI to help arrange their financial information before meetings with advisors. From summarizing financial articles to preparing questions, AI helps retirees save time while staying informed. Some even use it as a digital filing assistant, categorizing tax documents, receipts, and travel logs for the upcoming year.

Won cautions, however, that “AI should be viewed as guidance, not a promise. It’s a powerful assistant, but it can still make errors—especially on topics like health or finance—so always double-check important information.”

From Skepticism to Confidence

While some retirees were initially hesitant to adopt AI, many have now incorporated it into their routines. Surveys show that, while older generations are slower to adopt new technologies, comfort and usage are steadily rising.¹

Won explains, “Retirees who’ve spent decades adapting to innovation in corporate environments, like Kirby, already have the resilience and mindset needed to learn new tools. Now, AI works for them—reducing complexity, not adding to it.”

A Smart Way to Simplify Retirement

For many retirees, using AI is about boosting productivity, not just curiosity. Automating travel planning, organizing budgets, and reducing decision fatigue can make retirement more manageable and less stressful.

According to Won, “you’re really adding peace of mind when you integrate smart tools into daily life. The goal isn’t to master the technology. It’s to let it operate behind the scenes so you can focus on what matters most.”

If you’re a Kirby retiree looking to organize your finances, streamline health care costs, or enjoy your retirement with fewer hassles, The Retirement Group can help. Call (800) 900-5867 to speak with a knowledgeable representative today.

For more information, visit WealthEnhancement.com or call Wealth Enhancement Group at (800) 492-1222 to speak with a Certified Financial Planner.

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Sources:

  • 1. Kakulla, Brittne, Laura Skufca, Patty David, Jessica Boothe, and Kristen Garrett. ' Empowering Independence With Technology Among Adults Age 50-Plus .'  Washington, DC: AARP Research, Jan. 2025.

  • 2. “Young Adults Are Leading the Way in AI Adoption.” AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, 29 July 2025.

  • 3. Chui, Michael, et al.  The Economic Potential of Generative AI: The Next Productivity Frontier.  McKinsey Global Institute, June 2023.

  • 4. Chatbots in Consumer Finance. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, June 2023.

  • 5. “Older Adults Express Mixed Views on Artificial Intelligence.” NORC at the University of Chicago, Oct. 2023.

What is the purpose of Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The purpose of Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary into a tax-advantaged account.

How can I enroll in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

You can enroll in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment form provided by the HR department or through the employee portal.

What types of contributions can I make to Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and potentially catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan.

Does Kirby offer any matching contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Kirby offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which is designed to encourage employees to save for retirement.

What is the vesting schedule for Kirby's 401(k) matching contributions?

The vesting schedule for Kirby's 401(k) matching contributions typically follows a graded vesting schedule, where employees become fully vested after a certain number of years of service.

Can I change my contribution amount to Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution amount to Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time by submitting a request through the employee portal.

What investment options are available in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

How often can I make changes to my investments in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can typically make changes to their investment allocations in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan on a quarterly basis or as specified in the plan documents.

What happens to my 401(k) account if I leave Kirby?

If you leave Kirby, you have several options for your 401(k) account, including rolling it over to an IRA or another employer’s plan, cashing it out, or leaving it in the current plan if permitted.

Is there a loan option available in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan may offer a loan option, allowing employees to borrow against their account balance under certain conditions.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Pension Plan Information: Name of Pension Plan: XYZ Retirement Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees must have at least 10 years of service and be 55 years old to qualify for the XYZ Retirement Plan. Pension Formula: The pension benefit is calculated based on 1.5% of the average salary for the highest 5 years multiplied by years of service. Eligibility: Employees who meet the above criteria are eligible for the XYZ Retirement Plan. 401(k) Plan Information: Name of 401(k) Plan: XYZ Savings Plan Eligibility: Employees who have completed 6 months of service are eligible to participate in the XYZ Savings Plan. Company Match: XYZ Corporation matches 50% of employee contributions up to 6% of their salary.
Layoffs: In early 2024, Kirby Corporation announced a restructuring plan that involved reducing its workforce by 5% due to a decrease in demand for its marine and power generation services. This decision aimed to streamline operations and cut costs. Source: Reuters
Stock Options and RSUs Available: Apple offers stock options and RSUs primarily to executives and key employees. Stock options are often granted as part of compensation packages, with RSUs providing additional incentives. Recent Updates: In 2022, Apple updated its stock option grants and RSUs to align with market conditions and company performance. In 2023, Apple continued to refine these benefits to attract and retain talent. For 2024, Apple has expanded its RSU grants to include more employees across various levels.
Kirby Corporation provides a broad range of health benefits to employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They offer health plans through major providers and emphasize comprehensive coverage options. Acronyms and Terms: Commonly used terms include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), and HSA (Health Savings Account). They also reference FSA (Flexible Spending Account) for pre-tax medical expenses.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Kirby at , ; or by calling them at .

https://www.reuters.com/ https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/cashbalancepensionplan.asp https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/about-ebsa/our-activities/resource-center/fact-sheets/cash-balance-pension-plans https://www.futureplan.com/resources/news-articles/defined-benefit-cash-balance-plan-key-priorities/ https://www.independentactuaries.com/2024-plan-limits/ https://kirbycorp.com/employees/ https://investors.kirbycorp.com/news-releases/news-release-details/kirby-corporation-announces-2024-second-quarter-results

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