Pennsylvania Issue | September 2024

Volume 9, Issue 3

Creating a Supportive Workplace for Aging Employees

The workforce landscape is evolving, with older women playing an increasingly vital yet often overlooked role. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, women now comprise 46% of workers aged 65 and up, a 6% rise since 1987. This trend is driven by desires for an active lifestyle, social connections, and financial security. However, despite their growing presence, older women face significant challenges.

The gender wage gap widens with age, impacting Social Security benefits and retirement savings. Women's earnings peak earlier and decline more rapidly than men's. According to PayScale, women reach their earnings peak at age 44, earning $0.82 for every $1 that men earn. By age 45 and older, the gap widens further, with women earning only $0.74 for every $1 earned by men. Additionally, older women often encounter both age and gender discrimination in hiring and promotions.

This wage disparity reflects a lifetime of wage disparities and career interruptions, often due to caregiving responsibilities. Many older women find themselves compelled to work well into their retirement years, not out of choice, but out of financial necessity. This situation highlights the critical intersection of age, gender, and economic vulnerability in the labor market.



To address these challenges, targeted policies developed by a range of stakeholders including employers, workforce development boards and policy makers are essential. Employers can play a crucial role by promoting age-inclusive hiring practices, addressing the gender wage gap, and encouraging professional development are crucial steps. They can also foster inclusivity by offering flexible work arrangements and ensuring workplace policies meet older employees' needs.

By creating a supportive environment for older women, it is possible to harness their valuable experience and skills, enriching both the workplace and society while supporting their financial security and well-being.

Source: PayScale

The Challenges of Age Discrimination

According to an AARP survey, nearly half of American workers older than 40 say they have faced age discrimination. Megan Cassella, senior writer for Barron's, joined CBS News to discuss the challenges of ageism.

AI and Experience: How Older Workers Can Thrive in the Modern Workplace

In today's rapidly evolving work environment, artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how we approach tasks and solve problems. For older workers, this technological shift presents a unique opportunity to enhance their already substantial skill sets and maintain their competitive edge in the workforce. 

Throughout their careers, many older workers have successfully adapted to numerous technological changes. This adaptability is an asset when integrating AI into existing workflows. Trena Minduri, Chief Learning Officer at Coursera, highlights the value of experienced workers: "Human skills such as critical thinking, organizational context, and leadership that many older workers possess will become increasingly important in an AI-driven world." Older workers have a wealth of knowledge and well-hone intuition. This combined with AI can lead to innovative solutions. They can effectively guide AI tools and quickly identify practical applications in their industries.

To make the most of AI, older workers should approach it with curiosity and confidence. Many AI platforms have user-friendly interfaces, making them accessible to all. Participating in AI workshops or online courses can help build familiarity.

Organizations can also benefit from implementing reverse mentoring programs, where younger employees share their AI expertise with older colleagues. This exchange of knowledge creates a symbiotic learning environment that strengthens the entire workforce.

By embracing AI as a powerful complement to their wealth of experience, older workers can drive innovation in their organizations and demonstrate that the combination of seasoned wisdom and cutting-edge technology is unbeatable in the modern workplace.

Sources: CNBC, Harvard Business Review

Participant Spotlight

Robin Boyd enrolled in the MaturityWorks program looking for new employment opportunities. She had been unemployed for more than a year when she found the program and immediately started working with her career counselor. She previously worked in the healthcare industry. Robin needed an updated resume, job search skills and help identifying transferable skills. 

Robin began her training assignment at Celestial Community Development where she trained in office support. Tere she was able to practice and improve her skills including communication, managing file systems, entering data, greeting customers and clients, office upkeep and keeping supply inventory up to date. MaturityWorks also assisted Robin with renewing her nursing license so she could secure employment in patient care and management. Robin found employment in July 2024, at Jefferson Health at Home by BAYADA as a nurse.

Host Agency Spotlight

Expressive Path, a Montgomery County, PA nonprofit, offers creative art and music workshops for disadvantaged teens aged 12-19. Serving over 500 students annually, they provide lessons at their facilities, schools, and community centers with flexible scheduling options. Their diverse programs include theater, dance, music, humanities, and visual arts, and feature workshops, exhibitions, performances, and community service to help students showcase their talents and build confidence.  

Currently, Expressive Path hosts one MaturityWorks trainee who supports the operations of the organization. Brenda Paskel currently trains at Expressive Path with the Director, assisting with various tasks such as workshop delivery, scheduling, event planning, and artwork creation. This partnership has provided trainees with diverse experiences that enhance their future job prospects while simultaneously benefiting the organization and the community. Two previous trainees have successfully transitioned into permanent employment with local organizations.  

By working together, Expressive Path and MaturityWorks are creating a promising future for job seekers while enriching the lives of disadvantaged youth through the arts. Both organizations recognize the importance of collaboration in building stronger communities and empowering individuals to realize their potential.