An Aging Workforce Works When Planned

Older Americans are opting to remain employed longer than ever before, observes 401kTV . However, this aging workforce may be at risk. Because of the pandemic and the resulting economic crisis, more workers over the age of 55 are unemployed than their younger counterparts — the first time this has happened in 50 years. This trend may get more pronounced in the months and years to come. One contributing factor may be an endemic bias against older workers. Two out of three people over 45 say they've experienced age discrimination in the workplace, according to an AARP survey. Meanwhile, many older Americans simply cannot afford to retire. The average 56- to 61-year-old has savings of just $163,577, according to the Economic Policy Institute. The benefits of older workers are many, ranging from the passion they have for their work to the vast pool of knowledge they possess and can share with younger workers. The article's author urges more employers to be "champions for inclusiveness for an aging workforce. Employers should have a plan to help older employees make the most of their time on the job." This means offering everything from continuing education to workplace wellness programs to mentorship opportunities.