The Aging Workforce in Canada

20% of Canada’s workforce (3.6 million) is 55 years and over (StatsCan, 2015)

By 2021, nearly one in four workers in Canada could be 55 years or over (StatsCan, 2011)

37% of people 55 and over worked in 2013, up from 24% in 2000 (Canadian Chamber of Commerce, 2013)

Older workers tend to have:

• Lower turnover
• Emotional maturity
• Workplace loyalty
• Less need for supervision
• Lower absenteeism

Compared to younger workers…

Older workers suffer fewer job-related injuries but their accidents can be more severe with a longer recovery period.

Older workers may work slower or make decisions less quickly but their work tends to be more accurate.

Older workers can do the same tasks as younger workers but are more likely to experience different types of injuries:

• Falls – poor balance, slower reaction times, visual issues
• Cardio-pulmonary – loss of heat, cold tolerance, over-exertion
• Health/disease-related – diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, hypertension
• Strains and sprains – loss of strength, endurance, flexibility

What workplaces can do

• Conduct risk assessments that take into account aging factors
• Provide education and training
• Develop safe work procedures
• Keep equipment in good working condition
• Consider workplace improvements: mechanical assets, workstation design, floor services, hand rails/grips
• Promote active living, healthy eating, stress management, and work-life balance initiatives

Tips for training older workers

• Incorporate past experience
• Provide context for information
• Allow more practice and classroom training for new situations
• Use short, active, and clearly written procedures
• Group equipment or tasks with similar functions
• Minimize distractions
• Reduce multi-tasking and activities

Workers of any age are more likely to be attracted to work and remain working if they feel their work environment is safe and healthy. A well-designed workplace benefits everyone.