The aging experience in the contemporary work environment: the workers’ voice

Abstract

Population aging is a worldwide phenomenon, which is expressed in the labor market by the aging of workers. This new scenario can bring opportunities, but also challenges, especially due to the culture of ageism that is present. Objective: In this context, the present study investigated how the aging experience in the contemporary work environment is constituted. Method: The case study method was used, with a qualitative approach, and six workers over 50 years of age from a company in southern Brazil were interviewed. Results: The subjects' voices revealed that aging at work includes the challenges of managing the transformations of the human aging process, as well as to work daily in an insecure and ageist work environment. Contributions: The article shows the importance that work can have for the lives of older workers, being a source of existential meaning and purpose.