Older workers are less stressed-out

28/11/2007

A new study carried out in the States into work-related stress has shown that older workers generally experience lower levels of work-related stress than younger people - which should be a ray of light for employers as the work force continues to age.

 

By the year 2010, middle-aged and older workers are expected to outnumber their younger colleagues, making the physical and emotional well-being of older workers a growing concern for employers across the globe - which is why the study was carried out.

 

For the analysis, the researchers examined different kinds of job stresses reported by participants between the ages of 53 and 85, and how they related to workers' life satisfaction and physical health. Slightly more than half of the participants were male, with an average of 14 years' education.

 

"In general, older workers did not report high levels of work-related stressors," said Fisher, an organizational psychologist who is researching issues of work-life balance. Just 15% reported that their work often or almost all the time interfered with their personal lives and a scant 2%said their personal lives interfered with their work.

 

"Many older workers are empty-nesters," said Fisher, " so they don't have the same work-personal conflicts that younger and middle-aged workers deal with, juggling responsibilities to children along with their jobs and their personal needs."

 

However, for both younger and older workers alike, time pressure has been increasing over the last two decades. "Technological advances along with outsourcing and downsizing, have all increased the amount of work and pace at work," Fisher added. "But it's particularly important to look at the effects this pressure may have on older workers, whose health may be more vulnerable than that of younger workers."

 

Fisher recommended a few basic guidelines, such as getting enough sleep. "In the short-term you may be able to cut corners, but in the long-term, cutting back on sleep may compromise your immune system and you'll be more likely to get sick." Also, be sure to get regular physical exercise. This can go a long way toward helping your body handle stressors, and reduce strains like anxiety and increase your energy level on the job.

 

Secondly, engage in active time management, Fisher advised older workers. Use strategies that work for you, like creating a to-do list so you can keep track of tasks and set priorities. And establish clear boundaries. "With all the technologies that blur the boundaries between work and personal life, it's important to set aside some time that isn't available for any work," she said.

 

The study, presented at the annual meeting of the Gerontological Society of America, was funded by the National Institute on Aging.