The Role of Aging, Age Diversity, and Age Heterogeneity Within Teams

Abstract

In the USA, baby boomers are aging and choosing to remain in the workforce longer than previous generations of workers. Likewise, many countries are experiencing demographic shifts toward a more age-diverse population. Meanwhile, organizations continue to rely on teams to accomplish tasks and solve difficult problems. Together, this means that workplaces and teams will be populated by a wider variety of ages. This chapter reviews and synthesizes the literature on aging, age diversity, and age heterogeneity in teams. The authors begin by delineating the relevant social and organizational theories that can explain findings about teams and their relationship with age diversity. This chapter will cover (a) the effects of age in teams, including performance effects; (b) challenges associated with an age-diverse team and potential pitfalls; and (c) strategies for organizational promotion and inclusion of age-diverse teammates, including leadership practices. Finally, the chapter concludes with directions for future research on aging in teams and age diversity.