HEALTHY AGING IN THE WORKFORCE

Almost 12 percent of the civilian workforce is 55+ years old, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS further projects workers 65+ will account for nearly 5 percent of the workforce by 2016.

Older Workers = Safer Workers

Older workers have more experience and are less likely to rush through work that requires attention to detail. The BLS reports that the incidence of injuries (per 10,000 hours of full-time work) is lowest among workers 65+. Additionally, older workers in relatively hazardous manufacturing and construction-related industries have a lower frequency of workers' comp claims than younger workers, according to the National Council of Compensation Insurers (NCCI).

Higher Severity

However, the picture isn't entirely rosy for older workers.

Older workers tend to have higher medical costs. NCCI estimates that medical costs are 26 percent higher for workers 65+. An injury to an older person costs more to treat because it takes longer for them to heal and damage is usually more extensive. For example, if a 60-year-old woman falls, she might break her wrist if osteoporosis has weakened her bones, whereas a 20-year-old might only suffer a strain in the same fall.

Older workers also lose more days on medical leave. NCCI reports that average indemnity payments per lost wage claim begin to increase at age 45, but then decline somewhat after age 65 – probably because workers who continue to work after 65 have relatively low salaries. Additionally, older workers usually want to get back to work.

Understanding Older Workers

Older workers' health and wellness needs differ from those of younger employees.

Physical strength peaks between 20 and 30 years of age, so older workers who do physical activity are working closer to their maximum capacity. Reaction time declines with age; eyesight and hearing also diminish. However, according to the Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS), age is less a factor in physical health than other factors such as obesity, smoking, lack of exercise and diabetes.

Mental abilities also change as people age. Older workers have slower cognitive speed. According to DHHS, they retrieve information more slowly and learn more slowly. However, they are ultimately equally successful in learning new things and may have greater retention of new material.

Loss Prevention

Slip/trip/fall injures are the biggest risk to older workers, accounting for 47 percent of injuries, versus only 20 percent for all workers, according to BLS. Older workers are also more apt to have shoulder, arm and lower back injuries.

Employers should analyze jobs to make sure all employees, regardless of age, are not continuously doing repetitive-motion activities and do not lift items that are too heavy for their strength. Tasks should be modified to prevent problems.

Employers should evaluate their lighting systems, ensure they have slip-resistant flooring and make sure entrances, walkways and parking lots have smooth, non-slip surfaces that are well lit – basic loss control measures that will benefit all employees.

When training employees about new tools – whether it's machinery or computer software – older workers need a slower-paced class, while young workers may need a follow-up refresher.

Wellness programs for employees of all ages can also have a positive impact on the severity of workers' comp claims. A healthier employee generally recovers faster than one who is overweight and out of shape. For more information on safety and wellness, please contact the PCOC Insurance Program Department at Jenkins Insurance Group: (877) 860-7378.

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