How employers can help older workers continue to work Alan Beazley

The issues Increasing importance of older workers in the labour force Factors affecting older workers’ employment

Two key policy areas Extending working lives Removal of the Default Retirement Age Increase in State Pension Age Fuller working lives Improving participation of those 50+

Changes to Working Age Population

Reasons for working past SPA

Employment rate by age and gender

Factors affecting older workers’ employment Health conditions, disability and sickness absence Redundancy Caring responsibilities

Older workers – health

Health problems by age group

Effects of health problems

Occupations at risk

Sectors at risk – men

Sectors at risk – women

Redundancy by age group

Reasons for leaving last job

The importance of keeping skills updated

Long term unemployment

Carers

Why do we need older workers? Retain knowledge and experience – 90% Ability to mentor younger employees – 56% Avoid skills shortages – 54% Maintain productivity – 38%

Key issues for employers Refreshing the skills of older employees – 60% Managing health and wellness – 51% Reviewing the retirement process – 51% Developing flexible working practices – 49% Helping managers to be competent in managing older workers – 49% Identifying the cost benefits of retaining an older workforce – 45%

In summary Work to overcome ageist stereotyping Targeted health education and interventions Ongoing skills training Flexible working

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