As society continues to evolve, the traditional concept of “working age” is being re-evaluated. A lecturer from Queen’s University Belfast challenges the idea that age alone should determine when someone should retire. In many high-income countries, the retirement age is increasing, with some countries like Denmark planning to raise it to 74 by 2070. Despite these changes, the OECD still defines the working age as 15 to 64, which fails to consider the diverse contributions of individuals outside this range.
The lecturer argues that focusing solely on chronological age is problematic, as many people outside the traditional working age bracket continue to work in various capacities. Alternative measures, such as functional age, which assess specific physical and mental capabilities, are being considered in some countries. However, a more innovative and dynamic approach is needed to reflect the diverse abilities and contributions of individuals in the workforce.
Research suggests that metrics like cognitive age, biological age, functional age, and social age can impact a person’s ability to work, earn, and contribute to society. It is essential to recognize that individuals may have varying reasons for not being able to work, such as disabilities or caring responsibilities. Ageist attitudes in society and the workplace can further marginalize older workers, leading to biases in recruitment and training opportunities.
The lecturer calls for a reevaluation of the concept of working age, suggesting that the current system perpetuates ageism and fails to consider the changing demographics and abilities of the workforce. While the notion of working age has historical roots in the industrial revolution, it may no longer be relevant in today’s society. Alternative measures, such as the active dependency ratio, could provide a more comprehensive understanding of individuals’ economic independence and contributions.
In conclusion, uncoupling age from economic measures and adopting a more age-fluid approach is necessary to address the artificial age divide in society. By reevaluating the relationships between age, society, and the economy, societies can better recognize the diverse contributions of individuals of all ages. It is time to move away from rigid age-based structures and embrace a more inclusive and dynamic approach to work and retirement.