Aging and work ability: Reflections on a complex subject

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to reflect on some topics related with work ability and extended working life. This subject is relevant given the progressive aging of the workforce and the expectations it will remain active longer. The topics addressed include: Aging of the labor force and consequences, work ability and extended working life, healthcare professionals and work ability, promotion of work ability and managing aging at work, and challenges to keep people at work. These issues pose considerable challenges, which need to be widely, and continuously met and discussed by the involved social actors. Maintaining people’s work ability, healthy and active aging should be considered priorities given the ongoing labor and social security reforms in Brazil and other countries. As a function of the subjects to be addressed in this meeting (Healthcare Ergonomics and Patient Safety) we paid particular attention to healthcare professionals and their daily work routine.