Connecticut Issue | December 2023

Over the past few decades, there has been a significant uptick in the presence of older Americans in the nation's workforce. According to Pew Research, approximately 19% of Americans aged 65 and older were employed in 2023 – nearly double the share of workers just 35 years ago. This remarkable shift is attributed to longer life expectancies supported by improved health and education among older cohorts.

Along with their growing numbers, older workers have experienced a noteworthy increase in wages. In 2022, the typical hourly wage for workers over 65 was $22, a substantial rise from $13 per hour in 1987. This increase is more significant than the bump in the earnings of workers between the ages of 25 and 64 over the same period, indicating a narrowing of the wage gap between older and younger workers over the years. Older employees are also working more hours annually than their counterparts in prior decades.

Older women, in particular, have provided a boost to the senior workforce. Women over the age of 65 now comprise 46% of all workers in that age bracket – up from just 28% in 1988. Older female workers today are also far more likely to hold a four-year college degree than their predecessors of 20 or 30 years ago.

Despite the persistent issue of age bias, older adults have achieved considerable success in not only securing employment but also in obtaining better pay and benefits. As the population grays, older workers are positioned to play an even greater economic role. Their proven value and potential suggest they will become an integral driver of workplace output.

Source: Pew Research

More older workers are unretiring and taking lower-pressure jobs, according to a new poll. Carly Roszkowski, AARP’s vice president for financial resilience programming, noted that seniors returning to the workforce cite finances as the primary reason. Other factors include a desire for social engagement, mobility and the fear of outliving retirement due to longer lifespans. Watch the video below.

In today's workforce, age diversity stands as an asset, offering organizations a unique opportunity to enhance innovation and productivity. With an increasing number of individuals choosing to extend their careers beyond retirement age, it is becoming commonplace for younger managers to oversee older subordinates. According to a Harris Interactive survey commissioned by CareerBuilder, 4 in 10 employees report working under a younger manager.

Younger managers stand to gain valuable insights from their more experienced subordinates, fostering a collaborative and enriching work environment where both parties benefit from the exchange of perspectives. Recognizing and appreciating the diverse strengths each generation brings is foundational to creating a cohesive and innovative workplace. Here are some tips for effectively managing older employees:

By fostering mentorship programs, skill-sharing initiatives, and embracing flexible work arrangements, organizations can build a culture that not only acknowledges but celebrates the unique contributions of every team member, regardless of age. In navigating the evolving workforce landscape, those organizations that proactively support and embrace age diversity will undoubtedly thrive in the creation of a robust and dynamic workplace. Age diversity, far from being a challenge, emerges as a compelling opportunity awaiting exploration and integration.

Sources: Career Builder, SHRM

When Lourdes Bermudez enrolled with MaturityWorks in August 2022, she was eager to reignite her lifelong passion of uplifting others through service and empowerment. A retired teacher, writer, and public speaker from Puerto Rico, Lourdes taught ESL and sponsored children abroad. However, after moving to Connecticut, she needed to upgrade her skills.

Determined to pursue her calling, Lourdes immersed herself in MaturityWorks’ offerings - building her computer abilities, English fluency, interview skills, and resume. Her diligence quickly paid off with a remote position assisting senior citizens for UR Community Care.

For six months, Lourdes worked with center staff to promote services and identify the needs of clients. But when St. Vincent DePaul Thrift Store offered her an inventory management role connecting shoppers with perfectly matched treasures, she accepted. The shop allowed her to uplift people of all ages, work with clients, and gain additional customer service skills. After a period of working at the thrip store, Lourdes interviewed for and accepted a new role as a full-time Case Manager at St. Vincent DePaul Shelter. With her new salary and benefits, she can support her husband while helping those struggling with homelessness.

The Agency on Aging of South-Central CT (AOASCC) joined MaturityWorks as a new Host Agency in 2023, bringing decades of experience in supporting older adults to live independently. Though new to MaturityWorks, AOASCC has been serving the aging community since 1974.

In their role as a Host Agency, AOASCC provides invaluable training opportunities and potential job placements for MaturityWorks participants. They are dedicated to empowering mature workers with the skills and experience needed for meaningful employment.

One current MaturityWorks participant, Catherine Piscitelli, is receiving hands-on training in modern office technologies and filing systems at AOASCC. As an organization focused on helping seniors remain active and engaged, AOASCC is an ideal setting for Catherine to build relevant skills for administrative work.

Beyond direct training, AOASCC delivers a wealth of services that align with the mission of MaturityWorks. They help older adults stay healthy and connected through activities and classes. AOASCC provides support for family caregivers and advocates for senior issues. Their wide range of community offerings enriches the lives of local older adults.

With deep experience assisting the aging and a passion for inclusion, AOASCC is a natural fit as a MaturityWorks Host Agency. Their guidance and job opportunities unlock potential for mature workers. AOASCC's involvement highlights the immense future growth possible for the MaturityWorks program. Their continued partnership promises valuable skills training and fulfilling employment for participants.