WG4: Aging and technology at work

WG4: Aging and technology at work

Description

Work in the 21st century is marked by profound changes driven by the technological revolution, digitalization, and the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI). These changes have benefits and costs for the aging workforce. On the positive side, they can prevent physical deterioration by reducing job demands and allowing workers to continue working. AI also holds promise to match older job-seekers’ unique knowledge/skills with open positions that benefit organizations.

However, technological changes come with new challenges. Old jobs are disappearing or being restructured, and new jobs are emerging. These changes affect some groups more than others, such as blue-collar and less educated workers, and are also blurring the boundaries between work and private life. This can diminish recovery and work-life balance, and in the long-run, lead to ill health and premature retirement. Older workers are especially challenged by these changes due to cognitive and motivational changes.

Therefore, the Action will address the following essential questions:

View other WGs

WG1: Work and organizational practices for a multi-age workforce

Aging at work involves many age related changes in physical, cognitive, and emotional capacities and skills as well as in perceptions and social roles.

WG2: Successful aging at work

Successful aging at work refers to the proactive maintenance of, or adaptive recovery to maintain, high levels of ability and motivation to continue working throughout the lifespan.

WG3: Integration of age-diverse workers and knowledge transfer

Increasing age diversity at work is both an opportunity and a challenge. Workers of different ages bring complementary competencies to the workplace, increasing creativity and innovation.

WG5: Career development in later life and retirement

As the population ages, retirement transition/adjustment and retirees’ well-being have become topics of great concern for governments and organizations.