Do you understand the so-called “Third Age” employees, who years ago would be retired, but continue to work? Well, you’d better, since millions of Baby Boomers come under this umbrella. But you should also know the best ways to accommodate them in your workplace, says Cash Nickerson, JD, author of the book Stag Nation: Understanding the New Normal in Employment, who identifies one accommodation you may not have thought of.
Nickerson says that accommodating Third Age workers requires more than just the stereotype of offering more frequent breaks and some ergonomic enhancements. And he even suggests that there be training for managers to understand Third Age needs and prevent age bias against older employees. “Many Boomers are doing the best work of their lives,” he asserts.
And what is that accommodation that Third Age employees need that you may not have thought of? According to Nickerson, it’s more bereavement leave. “Sadly, but realistically,” he says. Losing both family and friends, Boomers run out of leave and need more time off for funerals.