While millennials may dominate today’s workforce, a quiet revolution is underway. With longer lifespans and shifting economic conditions, more people are choosing to work well into their 60s and 70s. This trend presents both opportunities and challenges for employers. By understanding what motivates employees to prioritize their health and well-being, businesses can create a healthier, more productive workplace for everyone. Learn more about the aging of the American workforce and what you can do to improve the health and longevity of all your employees.
The Rise of the Older Worker
Look around your office, and you’ll likely notice a growing number of older workers. As more seniors choose to delay retirement, the older workforce has nearly quadrupled since the mid-1980s, driven partly by the growth of the 65-and-older population. In 2023, about one in five Americans aged 65 and older were employed, nearly double the number from 35 years ago.
And that number is only expected to rise. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that by 2031, 30% of Americans aged 65-74 will still be working, up from 25% in 2021. The number of people aged 79 and older is also expected to grow by 96.5 % by 2030.
Why Seniors are Delaying Retirement
Today’s older workers tend to have higher education levels than previous generations, making them more likely to remain employed than those with less education.
Additionally, shifts in employer-sponsored retirement plans have had a significant impact. Pensions, which encouraged early retirement with guaranteed payouts, have primarily been replaced by 401(k)s, which don’t offer the same incentives for retiring at a specific age.
Changes in Social Security benefits have also played a role. The age for receiving full benefits has risen, making early retirement less appealing. Many seniors may continue working to supplement their retirement income.
Moreover, some older workers choose to extend their careers as part of their retirement strategy, giving them more time to save, keep their minds sharp, and maintain social interactions.
Longevity in the Workplace: Lifespan vs. Healthspan
Thanks to medical advancements, public health initiatives, and increased access to healthcare, people are living longer. The average life expectancy is now 77.5 years, with many reaching 85 and beyond. In fact, about one in three 65-year-olds can expect to live to at least 90, and one in seven will reach 95.
However, longevity isn’t just about living longer – people want to stay healthy and vibrant as they age. While lifespan refers to the total number of years lived, healthspan measures how long a person remains in good health without any significant issues. For senior employees, healthspan is often far more important than lifespan.
The #1 Strategy for Health and Longevity
It’s no surprise that exercise is one of the most essential behaviors associated with longevity and healthy aging. Studies consistently show that regular physical activity lowers the risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and falls, among other benefits.
In fact, physical activity may be even more important for longevity than genetics. Research suggests that regardless of genetic predispositions, it’s possible to extend lifespan by maintaining healthy habits like regular exercise and reducing time spent sitting.
Motivating the Senior Employee
Given the importance of physical activity, how can senior employees be motivated to take advantage of fitness benefits? A recent Fitness and Preferences Survey conducted by Aaptiv revealed that 81% of seniors cited improving overall health as their top motivator for exercise. Other motivators included:
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- Increasing mobility and flexibility
- Improving strength and balance
- Managing or preventing health conditions
Senior Fitness Trends
Fitness trends for seniors in the workforce are evolving to meet their unique needs and preferences. Today’s seniors are embracing digital technology and adopting a mind-body approach to exercise, focusing on overall wellness. Key trends include:
- Wearable fitness technology: Seniors are using fitness trackers and smartwatches to monitor their activity levels, heart rate, and sleep patterns, helping them stay motivated.
- Virtual, on-demand fitness classes: Online platforms offer a variety of classes tailored to senior needs, providing flexibility and convenience.
- Social fitness activities: Group activities like walking, cycling, and hiking are gaining popularity among seniors, combining exercise with social interaction and camaraderie.
- Functional fitness training: Seniors are focusing on improving balance, coordination, and strength, which makes daily activities easier and reduces the risk of falls.
- Mind-body practices: Yoga, tai chi, and meditation are increasingly incorporated into fitness routines to enhance mental well-being, reduce stress, and improve flexibility.
- Personalized fitness plans: Seniors benefit from plans tailored to their individual needs, goals, and health conditions.
With more seniors choosing to stay in the workforce longer, employers must understand their older employees’ unique needs and motivations. From the desire for a better healthspan to evolving fitness trends, seniors are embracing healthy habits that keep them active and engaged in their later years. By offering the right fitness benefits and creating a supportive environment, businesses can help employees of all ages thrive in and out of the workplace.
Aaptiv: The All-in-One Fitness Solution for All Ages
Aaptiv’s AI-powered personalized fitness app offers over 10,000 on-demand classes across a wide variety of fitness and wellness categories, including strength training, stretching, meditation, and aerobic workouts for all ages and fitness levels. Additionally, Aaptiv provides access to one of the largest gym networks in the country, including 20,000 local and national brands and boutique studios— available exclusively as an employer/health plan benefit, with multiple membership options to fit any wellness budget.
Learn more about Aaptiv employee wellness and fitness benefits.
