The Aging Workforce (We're All a Part of It)
Do you have a job? Are you getting older?
If you answered ‘yes’ to both of these questions then that makes you part of the aging workforce.
Did you know?
Due to the ever changing status of retirement benefits, social security, and personal financial situations, most individuals are not retiring until approximately 67 years old (Irby, 2018).
Individuals aged 55 and older make up 17% of all employed workers (Irby, 2018).
During a 25-year study it was identified that about 38,200 older workers have died due to a workplace injury which accounts for 26% of all fatal occupation injuries by workers over this period (Smith et al., 2020).
Energy Conservation Techniques
Pace Yourself
Allow plenty of time to complete a task, as rushing often leads to injury due to lack of attention to detail.
Spread heavy and light tasks throughout the day if able
Plan Ahead
Arrange items for easy reach and gather all materials before starting the task.
If completing the task is going to be difficult, plan ahead for strategies
Ask for Help
Ask for help if the task is too demanding.
Do not wait until you have exhausted yourself to complete tasks.
Make Tasks Easy
Continue to emphasize using good body mechanics, ergonomics, and posture.
Be conscientious of the work environment as well as clutter on the floor
Suggestions for Cognition/Attention
Set reminders on your phone or write them on sticky notes for important tasks.
Saying steps aloud when completing a task.
Use good organization skills such as keeping a planner, labeling items, and organizing items frequently used so they are easily retrievable.
Limit distractions as much as possible such as noise, clutter, TV, and music.
Games, puzzles, and reading are all ways to help with exercising memory.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Getting at least 8 hours of sleep at night will help to promote increased energy and productivity throughout the day.
Having an appropriate diet full of vitamins and minerals will help to reduce the risk of injury or illness associated with aging.
Physical activity throughout the day will help to maintain and improve endurance and strength.
Physical activity can also reduce the risk for falls by improving balance.
References
Hall, C. A. (2018). Occupational therapy toolkit: patient handouts and treatment guides (7th edition). Hallen House Publishing.
Irby, C.M. (2018, May). Older worker– are they aging successfully?. Monthly Labor Review. https://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2018/beyond-bls/older-workers
Smith, S. & Pegular, S. (2020). Fatal occupational injuries to older worker. Monthly Labor Review. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://doi.org/10.21916/mlr.2020
Rice, J. (2011, April 29). Nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses among older workers. Morbid and Mortality Weekly Report, 60(16), 503-508. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6016a3.htm