The purpose is to inform physiotherapists about factors related to 55+ employees’ work ability and career continuation from a holistic view. This information helps physiotherapists understand the multifaceted nature of support for 55+ employees’ work ability.
The data were collected by 1) interviewing managers in a total of nine companies in Latvia, Estonia, and Finland about their age management practices and measures, 2) summarizing the results of the workshops for over 30 company representatives, and 3) reviewing the literature. A thematic analysis of the data was conducted.
Our analysis revealed several factors that may support the 55+ employees’ work ability and their career continuation. Those factors embody an organizational culture that values aging employees and has implemented age-appropriate practices and policies. The key age-appropriate practices and policies were:1) non-discriminatory recruitment, 2) positive interaction and collaboration among employees of different ages in the work communities, 3) continuous learning and career development, 4) fair rewarding, 5) individually supported work ability and work performance, 6) the promotion of occupational safety and health and well-being at work, 7) the flexible organization of the work, and 8) timely planning of the retirement transition.
Physiotherapists need to understand that the aging process is individual. Work ability is determined not only by health and functional capacity but also by motivation, competence, and inclusion. The experience of being appreciated and respected at work is important for career continuation. The comprehensive ergonomics concept, including physical, cognitive, affective, and organizational ergonomics, provides the framework for physiotherapists’ professional approach in this context.
The results can benefit HR and occupational health services to develop best practices to support the 55+ employees’ career continuation; which, in turn, may contribute to individual, organizational, and societal well-being.
Promotion of career continuation
Physiotherapy
