ABSTRACT
The preceding chapters have presented general information and guidelines relevant to design for an aging population. We now turn to a discussion of the application of these principals and guidelines within the context of work and work environments. Recent demographic trends underscore the importance of designing work environments and work tasks to accommodate both younger and older workers. Because of a number of factors, such as the aging of the “baby boomers” and changes in retirement policies and benefits, the number of older workers will increase substantially over the next two decades. It is anticipated that by the year 2010, the number of U.S. workers who are beyond the age of 55 will be approximately 26 million, a 46 percent increase since 2000; by 2025, this number will increase to approximately 33 million. Important is that there will also be an increase in the number of workers older than 65. In contrast to previous decades, labor force participation rates are projected to increase for both older women and older men, although the increase will be slightly greater for older women. The percentage of older workers is expected to increase across most occupational categories, with the largest growth occurring in white-collar occupations, such as executives and managers; professional occupations; sales; and administrative support (Figure 8.1).
