The intersection of workplace accommodations and aging: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Disability Studies
• Workplace Health

Background:

• Aging global populations necessitate understanding workplace accommodations for older adults.
• Ensuring equity, productivity, and well-being for aging workers is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the intersection of aging, disability, and workplace accommodations for older workers.
• To identify common accommodation needs and access barriers.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review following PRISMA-ScR standards.
• Searched AgeLine, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Social Science Premium Collection (1990-2023).
• Included empirical studies on employees aged 55+.

Main Results:

• Flexible scheduling, ergonomic adaptations, and job modifications were frequently requested and provided accommodations.
• Accommodation access influenced by awareness of rights, disclosure stigma, employer attitudes, and workplace culture.
• Most studies were qualitative and North American, highlighting need for diversity.

Conclusions:

• Gaps exist between accommodation needs and implementation due to limited awareness, stigma, and organizational support.
• Workplaces should foster inclusive cultures, train supervisors, and enforce accommodation policies.
• Future research needs mixed-methods and international perspectives for equitable aging workforce practices.