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Review
. 2018 May;60(5):440-448.
doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000001295.

Framework for Considering Productive Aging and Work

Paul A Schulte  1 , James Grosch, Juliann C Scholl, Sara L Tamers
Affiliations
Review

Framework for Considering Productive Aging and Work

Paul A Schulte et al. J Occup Environ Med. 2018 May.

Abstract

Objectives: The U.S. population is experiencing a demographic transition resulting in an aging workforce. The objective of this article is to elucidate and expand an approach to keep that workforce safe, healthy, and productive.

Methods: This article elucidates the framework for the National Center for Productive Aging at Work of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Subject matter experts used a snowball method to review published literature to substantiate elements in the framework.

Results: Evidence-based literature supports a productive aging framework for the workforce involving the following elements: 1) life span perspective; 2) comprehensive and integrated approaches to occupational safety and health; 3) emphasis on positive outcomes for both workers and organizations; and 4) supportive work culture for multigenerational issues.

Conclusion: The productive aging framework provides a foundational and comprehensive approach for addressing the aging workforce.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have no conflicts of interest.

Figures

FIGURE 1.
FIGURE 1.
Shift in population distribution from 1900 to 2050 (Adapted from Gutman and Drexler).
FIGURE 2.
FIGURE 2.
Determinants of an aging workforce framework for productive aging.
FIGURE 3.
FIGURE 3.
A life course perspective of the highest possible level of functional capacity.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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