Physical Capabilities and Occupational Health of Older Workers

This chapter reviews research findings related to how changes in physical capabilities due to aging may have a bearing on the occupational health of older workers. Although older age is typically associated with decreasing physical and mental capabilities and an increasing likelihood of decline in performance, this is not consistent among all workers. Some people do undergo functional degeneration and face occupational repercussions, but others do not, continuing instead to experience age-related benefits that exert protective effects in terms of physical, mental, and social well-being at work. Relevant studies and implications for both individuals and organizations are discussed.