Cognitive health and older workers: policy implications

Cognitive health, memory complaints, and cognitive impairment among older workers have begun to receive attention in the research, practice, education, and policy arenas. With the aging population of the United States continuing to increase, projections are that the number of workers 65 and older is also expected to increase. Concerns regarding cognitive impairment and job performance in older workers are being raised. Being familiar with the policies and regulations that protect older workers and offering support and guidance to older adults as they contemplate major life transitions, such as retirement, are important role components for gerontological nurses. Using the five levels of analysis in the social ecology model, selected public policies to support older adults in the workforce are reviewed, and recommendations are presented for fostering positive workplace policies that can promote cognitive health.