Perception versus Official Data: Employers’ Knowledge about the Aging Workforce

The current study compared employers’ perceptions and knowledge about older workers to official data, as well as employers’ views of the ideal situation regarding older workers, to assess potential gaps. A questionnaire answered by a sample of 373 employers was used to examine possible gaps between employers’ perceptions, views, and official statistical data regarding older workers. Statistical significance (T-Test) analyses suggested that gaps do exist, in issues like labor force participation rate, health status, and women’s retirement age, which may explain obstacles faced by older workers. Logistic regression models revealed the effect of personal and organizational characteristics on employers’ preferences regarding the ideal labor force participation rate of older workers, and the ideal retirement age according to their preference. Educational measures and policies aimed at increasing employers’ awareness to the official data regarding the aging workforce should be tailored to specific organizations, sectors, and employers’ characteristics.