As we move further into the 21st century, converging demographic, economic, and cultural trends have made population aging one of the most important issues facing U.S. workers and businesses. In this context, however, far less attention has been paid to the safety and health needs of older workers. Today, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 1 in 5 American workers is over 65. In 2020, 1 in 4 American workers will be over 55. The increased and projected labor participation rates of older workers show the substantial role of older workers in the workforce today and in the future. At this critical juncture, forming the NIOSH National Center for Productive Aging and Work is more relevant today than ever before.
The new virtual Center is hosted by the NIOSH Office for Total Worker Health®. It focuses on worker safety for all ages, promotes their lifelong well-being, and advances the concept of productive aging. This concept calls for providing a safe and healthy work environment for all workers and creating work conditions that allow workers of every age to function optimally and thrive—without disabling work injuries and illnesses. This should begin on their first day on any job and continue until the last day before they fully retire. It also recognizes the benefits that accrue to organizations as they retain the institutional knowledge and extensive skills of long-term, older workers.