A qualitative study of two older workers' adaptation to physically demanding work

Increasing numbers of older blue collar workers are remaining in the workforce. However, the effect of age-related changes on older workers' job performance is not well documented. This study examined how older blue collar workers continue to perform physically demanding jobs as they age. The research question was: How do older maintenance workers adapt to their job tasks given age-related changes in functioning? Qualitative case studies were conducted on two older workers: a Custodian and a Mechanic. Workers completed a Musculoskeletal Body Map and participated in multiple semi-structured interviews and work observations over a two month period. Triangulated data revealed that older workers self-initiated job adaptations for age-related and medical conditions that impacted their jobs. The most common job adaptations were means to reduce the physical demands of their jobs. Three other contextual themes emerged relative to the context of work and older adulthood: job content ("what's important in a job"), generational differences, and the broader role of work in older adulthood ("you can't separate home and work"). Findings are discussed relative to theories of successful aging and adaptation. Recommendations for managing and promoting successful aging for older workers are provided based on study results.