Rhode Island 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

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

St. Martin De Porres Center is a beloved institution that has served the elderly in Providence for over 50 years. Located in the heart of the south side, this nonprofit organization partners with over 40 agencies to provide critical services to seniors across Rhode Island.

As part of the state's Aging and Disability Resource Center, St. Martin De Porres acts as a one-stop shop for older adults in need. Their dedicated staff helps guide seniors to essential resources like food stamps, housing assistance, Medicaid, pharmaceutical aid, and more. Extending beyond social services, the center also fosters community through activities and holiday meals open to all.

St. Martin De Porres provides an invaluable opportunity for MaturityWorks trainees to develop critical professional skills. Currently, six trainees are placed at the center and are immersed in many facets of its operation. From front desk responsibilities to pantry assistance and maintenance tasks, trainees gain hands-on experience in a caring environment.

Trainees at the front desk are able to improve customer service, communication, and administrative skills while assisting visitors and answering phones. Working at the pantry allows trainees to practice organization, stocking, and interacting with clients in need. Maintenance activities teach trainees problem-solving as they handle the daily upkeep of the center.

Through this diverse exposure, MaturityWorks trainees are able to identify their strengths and build confidence. This placement gives MaturityWorks trainees transferable skills that will aid future employment searches. St. Martin De Porres plays an invaluable role in unlocking the potential of these trainees through real-world experience.