EUROFOUND report provides recommendations to keep older workers in the labour force

EUROFOUND report provides recommendations to keep older workers in the labour force

On 31 March 2025, EUROFOUND published a report on how it is possible to keep workers in employment as long as possible. It provides an analysis of employment developments, examines job quality differences across various age groups and analyses differences in job quality within the group of older workers. The report also explores the push and pull factors influencing employment trends across Europe and delves into the policies and practices implemented by Member States to keep older workers in the workforce. It highlights the critical role of social partners in shaping these outcomes and, finally, provides general pointers for policymakers to consider. 

The report underlined several key points:

• The report underlined that poor health significantly raises the likelihood of early labour market exit through unemployment, early retirement or claiming a disability pension. 
• It underlines that, in order to keep workers in employment for longer, a multifaceted policy approach is required, encompassing flexible work schedules and part-time hours, access to training and opportunities for lifelong learning, organisational techniques to accommodate those with disabilities or illnesses, and the rehabilitation of those returning to the workforce after periods of absenteeism.
• It also notes the importance of supporting older jobseekers, including tailored support to specific labour market groups like disabled persons or older jobseekers, addressing their unique needs and improving employability.
• The report highlights the option of return-to-work measures in different Member States to prevent early labour market exits.

The EUROFOUND “Keeping older workers in the labour force” report is available here.