Problems of older workers on the labour market

Abstract

This article focuses on position of older workers on labour market. It tries to identify and shortly describe the main factors affecting chances of older workers to get and keep a job. There are many approaches how to evaluate the opportunities and obstacles faced by older workers. On the basis of review of literature this paper points to significant problems that population ageing can bring to labour market. The differences between changes in productivity and changes in earnings might lead to reduction of employment of older workers. Technological progress or structural changes in industrial economies leads to other difficulties associated with ageing. Both employment and hiring of older workers are influenced by institutional arrangement. The future reforms should be aimed at improving flexibility of the labour market or eliminating stickiness of wages. The attention should be also paid to pension system and social security system. Finally, better education, training and health might help to delay the retirement as well.