Ohio Department of Aging
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 21, 2007
COLUMBUS - By 2012, nearly 20 percent of the total U.S. workforce will be age 55 or older, up from just under 13 percent in 2000, according to an AARP study. When faced with the declining proportion of younger workers and projected labor shortages, many employers will need to turn to mature, experienced workers in order to maintain a competitive edge. National Employ Older Workers Week is observed from September 23-29 to encourage businesses to consider the benefits of older employees.
"Americans age 55 or older are a dedicated and experienced core of our workforce," said Barbara E. Riley, Director of the Ohio Department of Aging. "Their contributions to the nation as paid workers and volunteers in both the private and public sectors are immeasurable."
Employers rate older workers high on factors such as judgment, commitment to quality, attendance and punctuality. These qualities, coupled with their sense of loyalty, make older workers an attractive resource for employers seeking workers and mentors for younger employees.
By 2008, 40 percent of the labor force will be 45 or older, and eight million more Americans age 55 and older will be in the labor force than in 1998. This population of mature workers includes individuals who are retiring at young ages and want second careers, individuals who choose to work beyond age 65 and some who want a regular source of income, but not necessarily a full-time job.
Ohio helps low-income older adults find employment through the Senior Community Services Employment Program (SCSEP), administered by the Ohio Department of Aging. Older adults gain work skills through training and work experience, increasing their value to prospective employers.
Governor Ted Strickland's Turnaround Ohio initiative stresses making the state a stronger competitor in the global marketplace. Later this fall, Governor Strickland and the Department of Aging will convene a group of business leaders and human resources professionals at the Governor's Conference on Aging. Topics will include the impact of mature workers on the economy and the benefits, both financial and experiential, of mature workers continuing to earn and contributing to business development.
About ODA
The Ohio Department of Aging provides leadership for the delivery of services and supports that improve and promote quality of life and personal choice for older Ohioans, adults with disabilities, their families and their caregivers. Working with 12 area agencies on aging and other community partners, the department offers home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman program, the Golden Buckeye Card and more. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com.
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Ohio Department of Aging