5 Myths about Older Workers
Older workers are not long-term employees.
In fact, older workers are more loyal and stay longer than their younger counterparts. They stay with the same employer for an average of 15 years compared with the average four years workers in their 20’s and 30’s will provide. Older workers’ higher retention rates and loyalty can reduce an employer’s expenses by reducing turnover costs.
Older workers are less productive.
Productivity is not a function of age; Not only that, but older workers are also more likely to be more accurate and dependable than younger workers which will increase productivity. Maturity is a benefit in evaluating new information and making consistent and reliable decisions.
Training costs are higher
Because older workers aged 65 and up have the highest job satisfaction rating of any age group and the lowest turnover, they are more likely to complete training programs. Not only that, but the work life of an older adult will usually exceed the life of any new technology they may be trained for.
Older workers have failing health
Poor health isn’t reflected in workplace statistics. On average each year, older workers take fewer work days off for illness and 80 percent of older workers have no chronic health problems. And, because of their life experience and wisdom, older workers account for only eight percent of workplace injuries.
Can’t teach an old dog new tricks
It is proven that adaptability and general intelligence is not related to age, and the ability to learn new skills does not decline with age. Studies have also shown that a younger worker can be just as “strong-willed” as any older worker.
Should You Hire an Older Person as an Employee?
Absolutely. Not only will you find them productive, capable, and enjoyable to work with, their life experience and tenacity will teach YOU a few new tricks.
