Old people with benefits

Keeping older people in the workforce has its benefits – some of which include lower levels of absenteeism.

Council on the Ageing (COTA) has estimated almost one in 10 of us will never fully retire, with just over 20% aiming to work until they are older than 70 years.

Studies have also shown older workers are more flexible regarding working hours and conditions. They also reportedly bring maturity and experience to the job.

AdelaideNow reports many people also are keen to stay in the workforce indefinitely, enjoying the challenge of work and harbouring a desire to continue making a contribution.

Despite their obvious value, many older job applicants feel they are discriminated against because of their age. Organisations which do not actively seek to employ older workers will not only miss out on reliable, highly skilled staff, they will struggle to fill positions at all.

There is an ongoing role for governments to make it easier to employ older workers and implement tax policies that make remaining in the workforce attractive.