Work Comp Insights

This starts with understanding the safety implications associated with this age group as well as preventative measures to keep them healthy, which can lead to a safer and more effective workplace for employees of all ages. 

Who is an aging worker?

There is no set age that represents an older worker. An aging worker can be defined by a variety of parameters. They are full-time and part-time workers; temporary and permanent; and can be found in almost any occupation. Older workers can be 45, 65 or even in their 70s.

As 76 million baby boomers continue to grow older, they are predicted to stay in or return to the workforce. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of workers ages 55 and older will increase to 73% by 2020, while the number of younger workers will only grow 5%. Not only that, the BLS also reports that between 1977 and 2007, the employment of workers 65 and older increased 101% while total employment only increased 59%. For men over 65, the increase was 75% and for women it was as high as 147%.

The BLS expects this growth in aging workers to continue through the next decade with workers over the age of 75 predicted to rise more than 80%.

Age Discrimination in Employment Act

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA) protects individuals who are 40 years of age or older from employment discrimination based on age. This applies to both employees and job applicants. Under ADEA, it is unlawful to discriminate against a person because of his/her age with respect to any term, condition or privilege of employment. This includes the processes of hiring, firing, promotion, layoff, compensation, benefits, job assignments and training.

Benefits that come with experience.  To read the full article, please click here. 

Contact Patrick Darcey CIC regarding any questions related to Workers Compensation. He can be reached at 401-671-6355 pdarcey@providerig.com.