Teleworking to Support Accommodation, Inclusion, and Health of Aging Workers: Protocol for a Study to Design,...

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Human Resources Management
• Digital Workplace Studies

Background:

• Aging workers are a vital resource facing unique challenges in the modern workplace.
• Telework presents opportunities for accommodation and inclusion but requires specific support strategies for older employees.
• Rehabilitation professionals and managers need effective tools to assist aging workers returning to work, especially with telework arrangements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a reflective telework application guide for aging workers.
• To support the accommodation, inclusion, and health of aging workers post-absence.
• To address the unique needs of aging workers in the context of telework and labor shortages.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a 3-phase developmental research design.
• Conducting individual interviews with aging teleworkers, managers, and rehabilitation professionals.
• Developing a logic model and reflective application guide, followed by validation and implementation.

Main Results:

• A reflective telework application guide will be generated for practical use.
• The guide aims to support managers and rehabilitation professionals in facilitating healthy telework for returning aging workers.
• Dissemination activities will ensure broad sharing and sustainability of project findings.

Conclusions:

• This pioneering project offers practical, scientific, and societal impacts.
• The study provides innovative solutions for labor shortages in an increasingly digital and teleworking world.
• The developed guide will enhance the healthy integration of aging workers into the evolving workforce.