Injuries at work amongst workers aged over 60 years in Victoria, Australia, 2013-2024

Labour force participation among adults aged 60+ years is rising due to economic and legislative factors. However, older workers face elevated injury risks and are not always covered by workers' compensation, especially those in family businesses or self-employed roles. This study examined work-related injury rates and trends in older workers in Victoria, Australia.

Work-related injuries among Victorians aged 60+ years from 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2024 were selected as those with an emergency department (ED) presentation or hospital admission for injuries sustained while working for income. Injury rates were calculated using Australian Bureau of Statistics labour force data. Analyses were stratified by age, sex, injury type and cause. Poisson regression was used to assess time trends.

There were 20 201 ED presentations (591/100 000 employed persons) and 9538 hospital admissions (279/100 000). While case numbers increased over time, ED rates remained stable (incident rate ratios (IRRs)0.998 (95% CI 0.992 to 1.004)) and admission rates showed a slight but statistically significant increase (IRRs 1.014 (95% CI 1.004 to 1.025)), reflecting workforce growth. ED rates were highest in the 60-64 age group; admission rates were highest in those aged 75+ years. Fractures accounted for 40% of older worker injury admissions. Open wounds, dislocations and sprains were common ED presentations. Falls were the leading injury cause.

ED and hospital injury counts increased among workers ≥60 years over 10 years, highlighting the need for increased prevention activities to reduce work-related injuries in this population.