The intersection of workplace accommodations and aging: A scoping review

BackgroundAs global populations age, understanding how older adults access and receive workplace accommodations is essential for promoting equity, productivity, and well-being.ObjectiveThis scoping review explores the intersection of aging, disability, and workplace accommodations among older workers.MethodsGuided by PRISMA-ScR standards, four databases-AgeLine, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Social Science Premium Collection-were searched for empirical studies published from 1990 to 2023. Studies examining accommodations for employees aged 55 or older were included. Of 2293 records screened and 231 full texts reviewed, eight met the inclusion criteria.ResultsOlder workers most frequently requested accommodations included flexible scheduling, ergonomic adaptations, and job modifications (5 out of 8 studies); however, these supports were also the most frequently provided (4 out of 8 studies). Key influences on accommodation access included awareness of rights, stigma around disclosure, employer attitudes, and workplace culture. Most research was qualitative and focused on North America, underscoring the need for broader demographic, geographic, and methodological diversity. Thus, caution should be taken when interpreting the results.ConclusionsSignificant gaps persist between accommodation needs and implementation, driven by limited awareness, stigma, and uneven organizational support. To enhance outcomes, workplaces should foster inclusive cultures, train supervisors, and enforce accommodation policies. Future research should adopt mixed-methods and international perspectives to guide equitable employment practices for aging workforces under different cultures and legal frameworks.