The AGE model: Addressing ageism in the workplace through corporate social responsibility

Abstract

Life expectancy around the globe has been steadily increasing and the challenges that stem from aging populations are too complex for the governments alone to shoulder. Companies can play a significant role in combating the economic and social costs of an aging society through their Corporate Social Responsibility practices. In this article, we propose the Acknowledge‐Grow‐Embrace (AGE) framework as a model that can be used by companies to take advantage of the diversity of thought, experiences, and skills of an age‐diverse workforce, creating a sustainable and socially responsible workplace. In this model, that an organization may be practicing or allowing ageism activities and structures to persist in the firm is the first step that should be taken. Next, corporations should their understanding of the different forms and levels of ageism present in their companies and begin to install systems that prevent age bias to finally employees of all ages and encourage them to share their knowledge and leverage their potential.