Ageism and the Older Worker: A Scoping Review. (12th January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harris, Kelly; Krygsman, Sarah; Waschenko, Jessica; Laliberte Rudman, Debbie
• Editors: Pruchno, Rachel
• Is Part Of: Gerontologist. Volume 58:Number 2(2018)
• Page Start: e1
• Page End: e14
• Publication Date: 2017-01-12
• Subjects: Productive aging -- Work -- Attitudes and perceptions toward aging/aged; Older people -- Periodicals; Older people -- United States -- Periodicals; 305.2605
• DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnw194
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0016-9013

Abstract

Abstract: Purpose of the Study: Given the policy shifts toward extended work lives, it is critically important to address barriers that older workers may face in attaining and maintaining satisfactory work. This article presents a scoping review of research addressing ageism and its implications for the employment experiences and opportunities of older workers. Design and Methods: The five-step scoping review process outlined by Arksey and O'Malley was followed. The data set included 43 research articles. Results: The majority of articles were cross-sectional quantitative surveys, and various types of study participants (older workers, human resource personnel/manager, employers, younger workers, undergraduate students) were included. Four main themes, representing key research emphases, were identified: stereotypes and perceptions of older workers; intended behavior toward older workers; reported behavior toward older workers; and older workers' negotiation of ageism. Implications: Existing research provides a foundational evidence base for the existence of ageist stereotypes and perceptions about older workers and has begun to demonstrate implications in relation to intended behaviors and, to a lesser extent, actual behaviors toward older workers. A few studies have explored how aging workers attempt to negotiate ageism. Further research that extends beyond cross-sectional surveys is required to achieve more complex understandings of the implications of ageism and inform policies and practices that work against ageism.