MDHHS and LEO recognize National Employ Older Workers Week

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity are joining with the federal Department of Labor in observing National Employ Older Workers Week to honor older adults and their influence and impact in the workforce.  

This year's theme Embracing Experience and Empowering Futures aims to explore diverse aging experiences and discuss how older workers and employers can combat common stereotypes. With Michigan’s growing older adult population, the number of individuals working past the age of 55 is currently at a historic high.  

“Older adults make up nearly one quarter of Michigan's population and their lived experience, skills and knowledge can and should be leveraged to enhance Michigan's workforce,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director.

"Michigan's economic landscape is continuously evolving, and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity is committed to supporting older workers and their employers to help all Michiganders have a better quality of life for themselves and their families," said LEO Director Susan Corbin. "We thank older workers for their dedication and valuable contributions to our workforce, communities and the overall prosperity of our state for generations to come." 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that between 2021 and 2031 the number of workers ages 55 years and older will increase by about 10.2% to almost 41.5 million workers nationwide. With an estimated 10,000 adults turning 65 every day, retaining and recruiting older workers will become increasingly important in addressing labor shortages.

National Employ Older Workers Week also showcases the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), which provides on-the-job skills training to individuals 55 or older with limited financial resources. Since its inception, SCSEP has helped more than 1 million older Americans enter the workforce. 

How can communities, businesses and employers celebrate National Employ Older Workers Week? 

• Spread the word about the benefits of employing older workers through professional and personal networks. 
• Encourage social media followers to share their thoughts and stories of older adults or SCSEP participants using hashtags such as #SCSEP, #olderworkers or #nationalemployolderworkersweek to inspire and uplift. 
• Promote your local area agencies on aging and MichiganWorks! to your networks as the experts in aging and employment supports. From caregiver supports and respite services to employment or apprenticeship opportunities, both organizations stand ready to serve Michiganders. 

For more information on aging services, visit Michigan.gov/BPHASA.