Job performance among older workers

Conclusion

While methodological difficulties associated with the study of age and work performance make firm conclusions difficult to draw, it is apparent from a number of well-designed studies that age often has no real influence on performance. Wide individual differences exist and experience often counteracts any age effects.

Where age differences are found, it appears they may be caused often by psychosocial factors, such as a reduced work commitment because of limited career advancement opportunities. The use of training is also an important factor in ensuring that age differences in technical jobs which require a continually updated knowledge base or set of sensorimotor skills are kept at a minimum. By minimizing such productivity differences, the real benefits of older workers such as lower turnover, increased loyalty and job satisfaction, less frequent (if longer) absenteeism, and greater experience will be given a chance to show their importance.