Staying Young in the Workforce

According to the latest projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), over the next 10 years, Americans will be working longer into their older years. In fact, BLS predicts that 31.9 percent of those between the ages of 65-74 will still be working. That compares to 20.4 percent of the same age bracket in the workforce in 2002 and 26.8 percent in the workforce in 2012.

At the same time, the BLS predicts that age 55 will be the dividing line - projecting the labor force participation for those under that age to fall. This is consistent with a Pew Research Center study in 2009 that found the American workforce is graying. This is not based solely on the fact that the population as a whole is getting older, but also because "older Americans are staying in the workforce longer and the younger adults are staying out of it longer."

Georgia, while ranking in the middle of the pack regionally, has fairly low numbers of workers over the age of 65 when compared nationwide. According to figures released by the U.S. Census Bureau, Georgia has the third lowest population of 65+ workers at 3.9 percent. Utah is second at 3.6 percent and Alaska comes in with the lowest percent at 2.9 percent.

The states with the highest percentage of 65+ workers are South Dakota (5.9 percent), Kansas and New Jersey (5.6 percent), Connecticut (5.5 percent) and Florida (5.5 percent).

The Bureau of Labor Statistics defines older workers as those 55 and over, and provides unemployment rates for that class of workers. According to their figures, Georgia ranks in the middle of the pack in the Southeast Region (5.7 percent unemployment for 55+ workers).

Which jobs are the best for the over 65 workforce?

According to reports from CBS News, home health and personal aides top the list of job fields expected to grow the fastest by 2018. Flexibility in work hours and modest pay can be a good fit for older workers interested in working 20 to 25 hours a week.

Reports also show that health care facilities are more likely to recruit older professionals to match their aging client base. Also, older workers explore jobs such as physical therapist aide and medical and medical billing specialist.

Retail jobs are popular with older workers because of flexible hours and part-time and seasonal work opportunities. Government work, especially in Department of Veterans Affairs and the Transportation Security Administration - are known for seeking older workers.

Grant writing and private tutoring are also listed as "hot jobs" for the older workforce.

How about an internship?

While internships have traditionally targeted younger workers, many older Americans looking for work are now turning to internships. Many see it as a way to find permanent positions, while others simply see it as a way to get their foot in the door with a particular business. And with the many connections they have made over the years, landing an internship may be easier for those in the 65+ age group.

Other older workers have reported that internships are a great way to get an education in a different field "outside the classroom" - and many report that internships are great confidence builders as they look for work.

How about social media?

We all know that the Internet has changed the way we search for jobs, and this is also true for those in the 65+ workforce. However, a recent study showed that this age group is, understandably, not as confident as the younger generation in their ability to land a job through social media.

Career networking experts agree that all job seekers, including those in the 65+ age group, should have a strong online presence through career and social networks. Job seekers needing help with this or any other aspect of their job search are encouraged to contact their local Georgia Department of Labor Career Center for assistance.

Another potential resource for low-income older workers in Georgia is the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) administered by the Georgia Department of Human Services/Division of Aging.





Updated March 27, 2014