[Critical analysis of the conceptualization of work among older adults in the contemporary era]

This critical essay analyzes conceptualizations of work in aged individuals between 2000 and 2025 from a Western perspective. Given the emergence of new labor relations in this globalized world, it is imperative to adjust or construct conceptual definitions of work that allow for a comprehensive view of its implications for older adults. The objective of this essay was to argue how the one-dimensional conceptualization of work reduces the ability to explain the new dynamics in the work of older people. In terms of the methodology used, this research followed the critical essay format, using inductive logic, starting from the specific to the general, under Toulmin's argumentative model. We found that conceptualizations of work in old age have focused on the micro and macrosocial levels. At the microsocial level, the concepts of productive aging, work identity, occupational therapy, and workaholism were identified. These concepts are related to experiences, role transitions, advantages, and disadvantages perceived by older workers. At the macrosocial level, the concepts of non-traditional work, fair work, and the gender division of labor were identified, which recognize the influence of economic, political, and cultural aspects on labor relations in old age. In conclusion, the conceptualizations that have been developed so far have not yet succeeded in consolidating an explanatory theory that would allow us to establish a definition of work in old age.