Ageing workers in the healthcare environment: a review of available information to assist employers

Abstract

The Australian population, and its workforce, is ageing. The increased risk of injury faced by the older worker due to physiological changes, while generally well-known, is not well considered in the design of the working environment. This is particularly apparent in the health care sector where an ageing workforce provides care for an increasingly aged and infirmed patient population in environments that do not specifically cater for the needs of either. We have sought to examine the availability of information to assist workplace designers, health and safety professionals and employers design health care environments for the older worker by undertaking a systematic search of electronic media. The results have shown a lack of specific guidance or regulatory material. If Australia seeks to promote work into, and beyond, potential retirement age then specific standards are required to address the needs of the ageing workforce.