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The older nurse in the workplace: does age matter?
Linda D Norman1, Karen Donelan, Peter I Buerhaus
1Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Nashville, TN, USA.
Summary
The registered nurse (RN) workforce is aging, with over 40% over 50 by 2020. This demographic shift necessitates strategic planning for healthcare leaders and policymakers.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Workforce Demographics
- Nursing Professional Development
Background:
- The registered nurse (RN) workforce is experiencing significant aging.
- Over 40% of RNs were projected to be over 50 years of age between 2010 and 2020.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the demographic trends within the nursing workforce.
- To underscore the implications of an aging RN population for healthcare systems.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of workforce demographic data (2010-2020).
- Projection of retirement trends among older nurses.
Main Results:
- The cohort of nurses aged 50 and above represents a rapidly growing segment of the workforce.
- A substantial number of experienced RNs are anticipated to retire.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare policymakers, leaders, and managers must address the challenges posed by an aging nursing workforce.
- Proactive strategies are essential to manage potential workforce shortages and knowledge transfer.
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