Older persons in the workplace face misperceptions of what they want and need out of work, according to a study by the Sloan Center on Aging and Work. "Older workers want the same things other workers want: opportunities for learning, job clarity, workplace flexibility, and supervisors who show concern for their well-being and recognition for a job well done. When these job conditions are met, workers of all ages are more engaged," the center said in a recent study.
"While some employers may see the advantage of retaining older workers to avoid losing critical knowledge, other employers may still be hindered by the misperception that it may be necessary to make extensive (and costly) adjustments for older workers," it added.
Career development and promotion are less of a priority for older workers than for younger ones, but older workers remain interested in learning and it should not be assumed that they are disinterested in the workplace, said the study.
"The ideas that older workers are inflexible, unable to adapt, and costly to employers, is outdated in the current context of longevity and health. People in their 50s and 60s may well be at their peak—on average they are energized, reliable, and engaged. The real cost that employers should weigh is the cost of losing experience. Older workers have typically accumulated valuable knowledge and resilience and can be vital contributors in the work place," it said.