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Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2186

According to a 2008 analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics and Current Population Survey data, in 2007, the labor force participation rate for men aged 55-59 was 77.8%, compared to 66.6% for women. For ages 60-64, the rates were 59.2% for men and 47.9% for women. For 65-69 year olds, the rates were 34.3% and 25.7% respectively, and for 70-74 years olds, 21.2% for men and 14.0% for women. (Table 5, p. 47)

Gendell, M. (2008). Older workers: Increasing their labor force participation and hours of work. Monthly Labor Review, 131(1), 41-54. Retrieved from http://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2008/01/art3full.pdf

This report is based on the author's analysis of data collected annually by the Social Security Administration and on data from the Current Population Survey and Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1787

According to a 2007 AARP report, the labor force participation rate* of Americans ages 50-64 was 70% in 2006; for ages 75-74, the rate was 22.8%, and 6.5% for ages 75 and older. (p. 21)
*Labor force participation rate is the ratio of those employed and those without a job and looking for work to the adult civilian noninstitutionalized population.

AARP. (2007). The state of 50+ America 2007. Washington, DC: AARP Public Policy Institute. Retrieved November 1, 2007 from http://assets.aarp.org/rgcenter/econ/fifty_plus_2007.pdf

The report examines 25 indicators of health, economic, and social well-being taken from the 2006 AARP Aging Indicators Study, the Census Bureau's Current Population Survey, the National Health Interview Survey, the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Expenditure Survey, the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances, the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey, the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1786

According to a 2007 AARP report, the employment rate* in 2006 for Americans ages 50-64 is 67.8%, 22.1% for ages 65-74, and 6.3% for ages 75 and older. (p. 20)
* Employment rate is the percent of people in the population or a particular age group who are working.

AARP. (2007). The state of 50+ America 2007. Washington, DC: AARP Public Policy Institute. Retrieved November 1, 2007 from http://assets.aarp.org/rgcenter/econ/fifty_plus_2007.pdf

The report examines 25 indicators of health, economic, and social well-being taken from the 2006 AARP Aging Indicators Study, the Census Bureau's Current Population Survey, the National Health Interview Survey, the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Expenditure Survey, the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances, the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey, the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1581

According to projections made by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over the ten year period of 2002-2012, it is expected that the number of older workers aged 55-64 in the workforce will increase by almost 50%.

Pitt-Catsouphes, M., Smyer, M. A., Matz-Costa, C., & Kane, K. (2007). The national study report: Phase II of the national study of business strategy and workforce development (Research Highlight No. 04). Chestnut Hill, MA: The Center on Aging & Work/Workplace Flexibility. Retrieved August 22, 2007 from http://agingandwork.bc.edu/documents/RH04_NationalStudy_03-07_004.pdf

The National Study of Business Strategy and Workforce Development is a 2007 study carried out by The Center on Aging & Work/Workplace Flexibility at Boston College. Human resource professionals at 578 non-governmental organizations with 50 or more employees completed a survey about their organization's response to the aging workforce. At these organizations, approximately three-fourths of the employees were full-time, almost half were women and one-third were members of a racial/ethnic minority group.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1579

According to data from the National Study of the Changing Workforce*, there is a relationship between employee age and years in the labor force (an average of 6.4 years in the labor force for young employees; 21.3 years for employees at midlife; and 34.8 for older employees). Similarly, there is a relationship between tenure with current employer and the age of employees (an average of 2.2 years tenure for young employees; 7.6 years for employees at mid-life; and 12.4 years for older employees.

*Shen, C., Pitt-Catsouphes, M., & Smyer, M. (2007). National Study of the Changing Workforce. Unpublished raw data, Families and Work

Shen, C., Pitt-Catsouphes, M., & Smyer, M. A. (2007). Today's multi-generational workforce: A proposition of value (Issue Brief No. 10). Chestnut Hill, MA: Boston College Center on Aging & Work/Workplace Flexibility. Retrieved November 1, 2007 from http://agingandwork.bc.edu/documents/IB10_MultiGenValue.pdf

"This Issue Brief uses a lens of “human capital costs and benefits” to examine the work experiences of young employees (aged 18-30 years), employees at mid-life (31-49 years), and older employees (50 years and older)." (p. 1)

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1576

The baby boomers, those born between 1946-1964 are shown represent the largest segment (48%) of the U.S. labor force in 2000. By 2010, the baby boomers labor force participation is expected to represent only 37% of the labor force.

Gunderson, S., Roberts, J., and Scanland, K. (2005). The Jobs Revolution: Changing How America Works, 2nd edition. Chicago, IL: The Greystone Group.

Pitt-Catsouphes, M., & Smyer, M. A. (2007). The 21st century multi-generational workplace (Issue Brief No. 09). Chestnut Hill, MA: Boston College Center on Aging & Work/Workplace Flexibility. Retrieved November 1, 2007 from http://agingandwork.bc.edu/documents/IB09_MultiGenWorkplace_001.pdf

In this Issue Brief, we explore how age “matters” at the workplace; how perspectives about age differ according to chronological age, generation, life state and career stage; and the implications for managers who supervise young adult employees, employees at midlife, and older adult employees.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1573

"The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that greater percentages of the workforce will be comprised by workers 55 years and older over the next 15 years." (p.3)

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1572

"The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that, by 2008, over half of the U.S. workforce will be 40 years of age or older. And, this aging trend
is expected to continue for several decades." (fig. 1, p. 1)

In this Issue Brief, we explore how age “matters” at the workplace; how perspectives about age differ according to chronological age, generation, life state and carreer stage; and the implications for managers who supervise young adult employees, employees at midlife, and older adult employees.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1565

"According to analysis of the Health and Retirement Study, which surveyed Americans aged 51-61 in 1992, 90 percent of the men and 75 percent of the women worked for pay since age 50. About three quarters (73%) of the men and just under half (46%) of the women had a full-time career job at age 50 or older."

"This Issue Brief focuses on how people leave their career employment and the role that one particular type of flexible work arrange, bridge jobs, plays in the retirement transitions of older Americans."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1558

"The Employment Policy Foundation reports that the demand for labor in the U.S. will exceed the supply by 2006, with a projected shortage of six million qualified workers by 2012. Furthermore, they predict that the shortages will continue to increase through the first three decades of the 21st century."

Pitt-Catsouphes, M., & Smyer, M. A. (2006). One size doesn't fit all: Workplace flexibility (Issue Brief No. 05). Chestnut Hill, MA: Boston College Center on Aging & Work/Workplace Flexibility. Retrieved October 30, 2007 from http://agingandwork.bc.edu/documents/IB05_OneSizeDoesntFit_001.pdf

"This Issue Brief discusses opportunities to create flexible workplaces by restructuring jobs and redesigning work."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1556

"According to analysis of data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is expected that in the coming decade, a greater number of healthy older adults will be able to work past the traditional retirement age. This trend has already begun and is expected to continue."

Pitt-Catsouphes, M., & Smyer, M. A. (2006). How old are today's older workers? (Issue Brief No. 04). Chestnut Hill, MA: Boston College Center on Aging & Work/Workplace Flexibility. Retrieved October 30, 2007 from http://agingandwork.bc.edu/documents/IB04_HowOldAreWrkrs.pdf

Every two years, the Bureau of Labor Statistics produces medium-term, or 10 year, labor force projections. The present set of projections covers the 2002-12 period and estimates the future size and composition of the labor force. The labor force projections are estimated by combining population projections calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau with the labor force projections developed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1525

The labor force participation rate of persons aged 55-64 is expected to rise from 61.9% in 2002 to 65.1% by 2012. The 65-to- 74 age group had a participation rate of 20.4% in 2000 and is projected to rise to 23.6% by 2012.

Toossi, M. (2004). Labor force projections to 2012: The graying of the U.S. workforce. Monthly Labor Review, 127(2), 37-57.

"Every two years, the Bureau of Labor Statistics produces medium-term, or 10 year, labor force projections. [This] set of projections covers the 2002-12 period and estimates the future size and composition of the labor force... The labor force projections are estimated by combining population projections calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau with the labor force projections developed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics." (p.38)

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1497

Nationally, nearly one in four people between the ages of 65 and 74 (23.2 percent) were in the labor force (either working or looking for work) in 2006, an increase from 19.6 percent in 2000, according to data from the US Census Bureau's American Community Survey.

U.S. Census Bureau. US census press releases: New census bureau data reveal more older workers, homeowners, non-english speakers. Retrieved 9/27/2007 from http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/american_community_survey_acs/010601.html

The Census Bureau's American Community Survey looks at a wide range of social, economic and housing characteristics for the population by a multitude of demographic variables. The data are available for more than 7,000 areas, including all congressional districts as well as counties, cities, metro areas and American Indian and Alaska Native areas of 65,000 population or more.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1258

In 2000, 59.2% of adults ages 55 to 64 and 12.8% of adults ages 65 and older were in the labor force. Projections based on census data indicate that in 2050 those rates will be 60.3% for ages 55 to 64 and 13.4% for ages 65 plus. Given the size of these population groups, this increase in percentage points represents a significant increase in numbers. Despite increasing labor force participation rates projected for nearly all age groups, overall labor force participation is projected to fall from 67.2% (in 2000) to 61.5% (in 2050). (Toossi, 2002: 22).

Toossi, M. (2002, May). A century of change: The U.S. labor force, 1950-2050. Monthly Labor Review May, 125, 15-28.

"This article profiles and projects U.S. Labor Force Trends for a period of 100 years, from 1950 to 2050, on a decennial basis." (p.15)

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1790

According to an analysis of U.S. Census data by the Congressional Research Service, "In 2006, 91% of men and 76% of women aged 25 to 54 participated in the labor force. In contrast, just 70% of men and 58% of women aged 55 to 64 were either working or looking for work in 2006." (p. 2)

Purcell, P. (2007). Older workers: Employment and retirement trends. Washington, DC: Congressional Research Service. Retrieved September 11, 2007 from http://opencrs.cdt.org/document/RL30629

This Congressional Research Service Report was prepared for members and committees of Congress using 2007 data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1791

According to analysis of U.S. Census data by the Congressional Research Service, "in March 2007, 49% of men aged 62 to 64 were employed. Of men aged 65 to 69, 33%, were employed, compared with 27% in 1995 and 26% in 1990. Among women 62 to 64 years old, 42% were working in March 2007, compared with 32% in 1995 and 28% in 1990, whereas among women 65 to 69 years old, 26% were working, compared with 17% in 1995 and 1990." (p. 2)

According to a CRS analysis of U.S. Census data, "in March 2007, 49% of men aged 62 to 64 were employed, compared with 43% in 1995 and 42% in 1990. Of men aged 65 to 69, 33% were employed in March 2007, compared with 27% in 1995 and 26% in 1990." (p. 2)

Purcell, P. (2007). Older workers: Employment and retirement trends. Washington, DC: Congressional Research Service. Retrieved September 11, 2007 from http://opencrs.cdt.org/document/RL30629

This Congressional Research Service Report was prepared for members and committees of Congress using 2007 data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1792

According to analysis of U.S. Census data by the Congressional Research Service, "in March 2007, 81% of employed men aged 62 to 64 were working full-time, compared with 77% in 1995 and 1990. Seventy-one percent of men aged 65 to 69 who were working in March 2007 were employed full-time, compared with 57% in 1995 and 56% in 1990.

Among working women aged 62 to 64, 69% worked full-time in March 2007, compared with 60% in both 1995 and 1990, whereas among working women aged 65 to 69, 54% were employed full-time in March 2007, compared with 43% in 1995 and 44% in 1990." (p. 2)

Purcell, P. (2007). Older workers: Employment and retirement trends. Washington, DC: Congressional Research Service. Retrieved September 11, 2007 from http://opencrs.cdt.org/document/RL30629

This Congressional Research Service Report was prepared for members and committees of Congress using 2007 data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2175

Based on a 2007 analysis of data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), an on-going, longitudinal, nationally-representative survey of Americans aged 51 to 61 in 1992, "about 90 percent of the men and 75 percent of the women worked for pay since age 50.6 About three quarters (73 percent) of the men and just under half (46 percent) of the women had a full-time career job at age 50 or older." (Fig. 2, p. 2).

Cahill, K. E., Giandrea, M. D., & Quinn, J. F. (2007). Down shifting: The role of bridge jobs after career employment. (Issue Brief No. 6). Chestnut Hill, MA: Boston College Center on Aging & Work/Workplace Flexibility. Retrieved from http://agingandwork.bc.edu/documents/IB06_DownShifting_003.pdf

"This Issue Brief focuses on how people leave their career employment and the role that one particular type of flexible work arrangement, bridge jobs, plays in the retirement transitions of older Americans." (p. 1)

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2144

According to 2005 report from the U.S. Department of Labor, higher percentages of older workers are participating in the labor force in comparison to years past. However, the percentage of people working declines with age, beginning at around age fifty. (Fig. 4, p. 3)

Johnson, J. K. M., Pitt-Catsouphes, M., Besen, E., Smyer, M., & Matz-Costa, C. (2008). Quality of employment and life-satisfaction: A relationship that matters for older workers (Issue Brief No. 13). Chestnut Hill, MA: Boston College Center on Aging & Work/Workplace Flexibility. Retrieved from http://agingandwork.bc.edu/documents/IB13_LifeSatisfaction.pdf

Drawing on data from various sources, this issue brief offers insights about how employment experiences affect the life satisfaction of older workers.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2114

In a 2008 report on the poverty status of mature women, "a larger proportion of African-American than white women (41 percent vs. 31 percent) were employed in both years spanning the 15-year period" from midlife (ages 30-44 in 1967) to the pre-retirement years (ages 45-59 in 1982). (p. 9)

Lee, S., & Shaw, L. (2008). From work to retirement: Tracking changes in women's poverty. Washington, DC: AARP. Retrieved from http://www.aarp.org/research/assistance/lowincome/2008_03_poverty.html

This study examines the extent and possible causes of women's poverty as they move from midlife into their retirement years. The study uses data from the National Longitudinal Survey (NLS) of Mature Women, which is a unique data source that tracked a large number of women from midlife (ages 30-44 in 1967) until they reached retirement years (ages 64-78 in 2001). Respondents were surveyed periodically since 1967, and the survey collected data on a variety of topics including marital status, employment, health, income, and assets throughout a near 35-year period. (p. i)

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2103

In a 2008 study of workers aged 55-65 who had been diagnosed with cancer in 1997-99, the cancer survivors of both genders worked an average of 3-5 hours less per week than a comparison group from the Health and Retirement survey.

Farley Short, P., Vasey, J. J., & Moran, J. R. (2008). Long-term effects of cancer survivorship on the employment of older workers. Health Services Research, 43(1 Pt 1), 193-210.

Primary data for 504 subjects who were 55-65 in 2002 and were working when diagnosed with cancer in 1997-1999, and secondary data for a comparison group of 3,903 similarly aged workers in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) in 2002. Four telephone interviews were conducted annually with cancer survivors identified from tumor registries at four large hospitals in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Many of the questions were taken from the HRS to facilitate comparisons

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2091

According to a 2007 GAO analysis of BLS and CPS data, "employer's use of contingent workers, workers that are not full-time, year-round employees, has remained constant over the last decade at about 30 percent of the total workforce." Of those contingent workers, 43% are standard part-time workers, 24% are independent contractors, and 14% are self-employed workers. The others are direct-hire temps (7%), on-call workers or day laborers (6%), agency temps (3%), and contract company workers (2%). (Fig. 2, p. 12-13)

U. S. Government Accountability Office. (2007). Employer-sponsored health and retirement benefits. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Accountability Office. Retrieved from http://purl.access.gpo.gov/GPO/LPS82868

This report is based on data from three private-sector surveys of employer-sponsored health benefits and two federal surveys that address workforce characteristics and benefits costs and participation rates, including the Current Population Survey (CPS), which is designed and administered jointly by the Bureau of the Census and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and the Mercer National Survey of Employer-Sponsored Health Plans; Mercer's 2005 database contains information from 2,122 large (over 500) and small (under 500) employers who sponsor health plans.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2085

Based on analysis of 2003-05 CPS data, there is a "higher prevalence of underemployment* among older-aged workers in non-metropolitan areas" compared to those in metropolitan areas. For example, "among those aged 60 to 64 years, 17.5% of those in nonmetro areas were underemployed versus 13.0% of those in metro areas." For ages 55-59, 15.4% of workers in nonmetro areas were underemployed, compared to 11.6% of metro workers. "Within each age group it was nonmetro women who registered the highest rates of underemployment." (Table 2, p. S18)

*Underemployment is defined as either "unemployed, discouraged, involuntary part-time, or earnings less than 125% of the poverty threshold."

Slack, T., & Jensen, L. (2008). Employment hardship among older workers: Does residential and gender inequality extend into older age? The Journals of Gerontology. Series B, Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences, 63(1), S15-24.

This study is based on data from the March Current Population Surveys for the years 2003, 2004, and 2005. Descriptive statistics were used to explore the prevalence of underemployment among older workers. (p. S15)

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2084

Based on analysis of 2003-05 CPS data, nearly one quarter (24.1%) of labor force participants aged 20 to 29 years were underemployed [defined as either unemployed, discouraged, involuntary part-time, or earnings less than 125% of the poverty threshold]. "The prevalence of underemployment then steadily dropped, hitting its lowest point (11.8%) among those aged 50 to 54 years." For other age groups, the rates are 14.1% (30-39), 12.6% (40-49), 13.9% (60-64), and 15.9% (65-69). "Across all age groups women faced higher rates of underemployment." (Table 2, p. S18)

Slack, T., & Jensen, L. (2008). Employment hardship among older workers: Does residential and gender inequality extend into older age? The Journals of Gerontology. Series B, Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences, 63(1), S15-24.

This study is based on data from the March Current Population Surveys for the years 2003, 2004, and 2005. Descriptive statistics were used to explore the prevalence of underemployment among older workers. (p. S15)

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2075

According to a 2008 analysis of Current Population Survey data, between 1994 and 2007 in the percentage of employed older workers who worked full-time has increased in all age groups. In 2007, 92.0% of men and 79.2% of women aged 55-61 were employed full-time, an increase compared to 1994 of 0.7% and 7.5% of men and women respectively. For ages 62-64, 82.2% of men and 68.4% of women were employed fulltime, an increase of 6.8% (men) and 15.3% (women). At age 65, in 2007, 63.7% of men and 63.7% of women were employed full-time, increases from 2004 of 22.2% and 31.6%, respectively. The percentage increases rose with age through ages 66-69. There were double-digit percentage gains among men aged 65 and older and among women aged 62 and older. The rise in women's full-time employment was greater than for men. (Table 6, p. 48)

Gendell, M. (2008). Older workers: Increasing their labor force participation and hours of work. Monthly Labor Review, 131(1), 41-54. Retrieved from http://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2008/01/art3full.pdf

This report is based on the author's analysis of data collected annually by the Social Security Administration and on data from the Current Population Survey and Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2073

According to a 2008 analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics Current Population Survey data, the labor force participation rates for both women and men ages 55 and older have increased. Comparing the rate of increase for the years 1994-2007, there has been a 1.3% increase for men ages 55-59, 12.1% for ages 60-64, 28.0% for 65-69, 34.2% for ages 70-74, and 11.6% for ages 75 and older. For women, the increases are 12.5% for ages 55-59, 26.7% for ages 60-64, 43.6% for ages 65-69, 60.9% for ages 70-75, and 37.1% for ages 75 and older. (Table 5, p. 47)

Gendell, M. (2008). Older workers: Increasing their labor force participation and hours of work. Monthly Labor Review, 131(1), 41-54. Retrieved from http://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2008/01/art3full.pdf

This report is based on the author's analysis of data collected annually by the Social Security Administration and on data from the Current Population Survey and Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2072

According to a 2008 analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the labor force participation rates of older female workers in 2007 are: 77.2% for ages 45-49, 74.7% for ages 50-54, 66.6% for ages 55-59, 47.9% for ages 60-64, 25.7% for ages 65-69, 14.0% for ages 70-74, and 4.8% for ages 75 and older. The labor force participation rates of older male workers in 2007 are: 89.8% for ages 45-49, 86.4% for ages 50-54, 77.8% for ages 55-59, 59.2% for ages 60-64, 34.3% for ages 65-69, 21.2% for ages 70-74, and 10% for ages 75 and older. (Table 5, p. 47)

Gendell, M. (2008). Older workers: Increasing their labor force participation and hours of work. Monthly Labor Review, 131(1), 41-54. Retrieved from http://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2008/01/art3full.pdf

This report is based on the author's analysis of data collected annually by the Social Security Administration and on data from the Current Population Survey and Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2071

According to 2008 analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the number of men aged 50 and older in the workforce from 2005-2010 is 21,114,000. Of those, 4,490,000, or 21.3%, are projected to exit from the workforce during that time period. The number of women aged 50 and older in the workforce from 2005-2010 is 18,119,000. Of those, 4,201,000, or 23.2%, are projected to exit from the workforce during that time period. (Table 4, p. 46)

Gendell, M. (2008). Older workers: Increasing their labor force participation and hours of work. Monthly Labor Review, 131(1), 41-54. Retrieved from http://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2008/01/art3full.pdf

This report is based on the author's analysis of data collected annually by the Social Security Administration and on data from the Current Population Survey and Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 2022

According a 2007 analysis of Health and Retirement Survey data, among "war babies" (HRS respondents born between 1942-1947), 13% were self-employed. Of those, 59% were still on their full-time career (FTC) job, 33% moved to a bridge job, and 5% were no longer working. In comparison, among wage and salary workers, 50% were still on their FTC job, 30% moved to a bridge job, and 16% were no longer working. (Table 3)

Giandrea, M. D., Cahill, K. E., & Quinn, J. F. (2007). An update on bridge jobs: The HRS war babies (Working Paper No. 407). Washington, DC: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved from http://www.bls.gov/ore/abstract/ec/ec070060.htm

"This paper explores the retirement patterns of a younger cohort of individuals from the HRS [Health and Retirement Study] known as the "War Babies" These survey respondents were born between 1942 and 1947 and were 57 to 62 years of age at the time of their fourth bi-annual HRS interview in 2004." (p.2)

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1999

According to 2006 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the labor force participation rate for men aged 25-54 was 90.6%. For men aged 55-64, the rate was 69.6%. For men aged 65 and up, the rate was 20.3%. For women, the labor force participation rates were 75.5% for ages 25-54, 58.2% for ages 55-64, and 11.7% for ages 65 and up.

Older workers: Employment and retirement trends. Washington, DC: Congressional Research Service. Retrieved from http://opencrs.cdt.org/document/RL30629

This Congressional Research Service Report was prepared for Members and Committees of Congress using 2007 data from the U.S. Census Bureau

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1137

According to a Congressional Research Service report, in 2003 the labor force participation rates for workers age 45-54, 50-54, 55-59, 60-61, 62-64 were 82.1%, 80.2%, 71.3%, 60.1% and 43.8%, respectively. (Table 1)

U.S. Congressional Research Service. The Library of Congress: Issues in Aging: Unemployment and Older Workers (RL32757; Jan. 31, 2005), by Julie Whittaker. Text in CRS Web. Retrieved September 10, 2006, from http://www.opencrs.com/rpts/RL32757_20050131.pdf

"This report examines how unemployment has a different impact on the older worker. As workers age, negative--but previously temporary--events such as unemployment may push otherwise firmly entrenched workers out of the labor force. While older workers are less likely than others to experience a spell of unemployment, those older workers who do experience unemployment have a higher of withdrawing from the labor market."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1133

According to a Congressional Research Service report, "there is a rapid decline of labor force activity as workers reach their late 50s (55-59)--the approximate age when many buy-outs and some private pension plans allow for early retirement. This is reflected in a pronounced drop in labor force participation of just under 9 percentage points (from 80.2% to 71.3%) from what was reported for workers in their early 50s. This drop is followed by a subsequent 10 precentage point drop as workers enter their early 60s, when widow(er)s' Social Security benefits become available. For the age group who are eligible for early retirement (ages 62-64), their is another large decline in labor force participation of over 16 percentage points." (p.5)

"For the purposes of this report, the term worker refers to all participants in the labor market." (p.6)

U.S. Congressional Research Service. The Library of Congress: Issues in Aging: Unemployment and Older Workers (RL32757; Jan. 31, 2005), by Julie Whittaker. Text in CRS Web. Retrieved September 10, 2006, from http://www.opencrs.com/rpts/RL32757_20050131.pdf

"This report examines how unemployment has a different impact on the older worker. As workers age, negative--but previously temporary--events such as unemployment may push otherwise firmly entrenched workers out of the labor force. While older workers are less likely than others to experience a spell of unemployment, those older workers who do experience unemployment have a higher incidence of withdrawing from the labor market."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 1132

According to a Congressional Research Service report, "between age 25 until age 54, labor force participation is fairly consistent and high with approximately 83% being actively engaged in the labor market. Rates begin a substantial decline as workers reach age 55. Just under 62% of those between the ages 55 and 64, and just over 13% of those 65 and older are actively searching for work."

U.S. Congressional Research Service. The Library of Congress: Issues in Aging: Unemployment and Older Workers (RL32757; Jan. 31, 2005), by Julie Whittaker. Text in CRS Web. Retrieved September 10, 2006, from http://www.opencrs.com/rpts/RL32757_20050131.pdf

"This report examines how unemployment has a different impact on the older worker. As workers age, negative--but previously temporary--events such as unemployment may push otherwise firmly entrenched workers out of the labor force. While older workers are less likely than others to experience a spell of unemployment, those older workers who do experience unemployment have a higher of withdrawing from the labor market."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 488

41.9% of persons age 50-61 in the bottom 25% of income earners participated in the labor force in 2000.

11.7% of persons age 62-74 in the bottom 25% of income earners participated in the labor force in 2000.

3.9% of persons age 75 and above in the bottom 25% of income earners participated in the labor force in 2000.

AARP. (2002, May). Beyond 50: summary tables and charts. Research report. (Table: Core indicators by age & income data). Washington, DC: Gist, J., Figueiredo, C., & Ng-Baumhackl, M. Retrieved July 15, 2005, from http://www.aarp.org/research/reference/statistics/aresearch-import-298.html

"Through its analysis of both the status quo and developing trends, Beyond 50: A Report to the Nation on Economic Security provides readers with an in-depth look at the well-being of more than one-quarter of Americans - the 76 million people age 50 and older in 2000."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 403

In 1999, 65.4% of female workers between age 50 and 64 worked full-time all year; they earned a median income of $27,040.

In 1999, 29.2% of female workers age 65 and older worked full-time all year; they earned a median income of $20,000.

In 1999, 80.5% of male workers between age 50 and 64 worked full-time all year; they earned a median income of $43,000.

In 1999, 40.1% of male workers age 65 and older worked full-time all year; they earned a median income of $34,000.

AARP. (2002, May). Beyond 50: summary tables and charts. Research report. (Table: Employment). Washington, DC: Gist, J., Figueiredo, C., & Ng-Baumhackl, M. Retrieved July 15, 2005, from http://www.aarp.org/research/reference/statistics/aresearch-import-298.html

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 399

In 2000, 17.5% of men and 9.4% of women age 65 and older participated in the labor force.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 398

The labor force participation rate of nonwhite persons age 50 and older increased by 10.9% from 39.70% in 1980 to 44.03% in 2000.

The labor force participation rate of white persons age 50 and older increased by 6.4% from 41.41% in 1980 to 44.07% in 2000.

Through its analysis of both the status quo and developing trends, Beyond 50: A Report to the Nation on Economic Security provides readers with an in-depth look at the well-being of more than one-quarter of Americans - the 76 million people age 50 and older in 2000.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 395

The labor force participation rate of men age 50 and older decreased by 7.0%, from 55.2% in 1980 to 51.62% in 2000.

The labor force participation rate of women age 50 and older increased by 27.4% from 29.60% in 1980 to 37.72% in 2000.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 394

The labor force participation rate of persons age 50 and older increased by 6.9% from 1980, when it was 41.24%, to 44.06% in 2000.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 368

Older workers (45 years and older) comprise 38.5 percent of the U.S. labor force in 2004.

U.S. Census Bureau. (2006). U.S. Census Bureau, statistical abstract of the United States: 2006. Labor force, employment, and earnings. (Section 12, Table 579, p. 389). Washington, DC: U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved July 09, 2006, from http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/labor_force_employment_earnings/

"This section presents statistics on the labor force; its distribution by occupation and industry affiliation; and the supply of, demand for, and conditions of labor."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 364

Among employess currently in the workforce, "85% of men and 65% of women usually work 35 or more hours a week for 50 or more weeks per year...About three-quarters also say that it would not be possible.... to reduce their regular work hours at their current job." (p. 291)

Henretta, C. J. (2000). The future of age integration in employment. The Gerontologist, 40(3), 286-292.

This essay discusses the direction and implications of current and possible future trends in workplace age integration. If current trends were to continue over the next 20 years, there would not be much expected change in labor force participation patterns of older workers. Yet, there is good reason to expect that some of the trends supporting early retirement may shift in the near future in ways that favor greater labor force participation at older ages. Trends in demographic change, revisions in Social Security retirement rules, and employment changes are first covered. Following, there is discussion about the ways that these changes may lead to a redefinition of the social significance of age and encourage employers to implement job redesign that will provide more attractive opportunities for older workers.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 332

"The labor force of workers 55 and older is anticipated to grow by more than 10.2 million by 2012, the fastest growth among all age groups. Within that group, the 55-to-64 year olds are expected to add 8.3 million to the labor force." (p.52)

Toossi, M. (2004). Labor force projections to 2012: The graying of the U.S. workforce. Monthly Labor Review, 127(2), 37-57.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 317

Approximately 98% of persons age 55 and above who were not in the labor force did not want to be in the labor force in 2003.

U.S. Census Bureau. (2005). U.S. Census Bureau, Statistical abstract of the United States: 2004-2005. Labor force, employment, and earnings. (Section 12, Table 596, p. 384). Washington, DC: U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved July 15, 2005, from http://www.census.gov/prod/www/statistical-abstract-2001_2005.html

"This section presents statistics on the labor force; its distribution by occupation and industry affiliation; and the supply of, demand for, and conditions of labor. The chief source of these data is the Current Population Survey (CPS) conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau for the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 313

In 2001, 13.2% of persons age 55 to 64 and 15% of wage and salary workers age 65 and above were shift workers. All other workers had regular day-time schedules.

U.S. Census Bureau. (2005). U.S. Census Bureau, statistical abstract of the United States: 2004-2005. Labor force, employment, and earnings. (Section 12, Table 589, p. 381). Washington, DC: U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved July 15, 2005, from http://www.census.gov/prod/www/statistical-abstract-2001_2005.html

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 309

In 2003, 56.6% and 10.6% of female persons age 55 to 64 and 65 and above, respectively, participated in the labor force. By 2012, these numbers are projected to be 60.6% and 12.1%, respectively.

In 2003, 68.7% and 18.6% of male persons age 55 to 64 and 65 and above, respectively, participated in the labor force. By 2012, these numbers are projected to be 69.9% and 20.8%, respectively.

U.S. Census Bureau. (2005). U.S. Census Bureau, statistical abstract of the United States: 2004-2005. Labor force, employment, and earnings. (Section 12, Table 570, p. 371). Washington, DC: U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved July 15, 2005, from http://www.census.gov/prod/www/statistical-abstract-2001_2005.html

"This section presents statistics on the labor force; its distribution by occupation and industry affiliation; and the supply of, demand for, and conditions of labor. The chief source of these data is the Current Population Survey (CPS) conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau for the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 308

In 2003, 68.7% and 18.6% of men age 55 to 64 and 65 and above, respectively, participated in the labor force. By 2012, these numbers are projected to be 69.9% and 20.8%, respectively.

U.S. Census Bureau. (2005). U.S. Census Bureau, statistical abstract of the United States: 2004-2005. Labor force, employment, and earnings. (Section 12, Table 570, p. 371). Washington, DC: U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved July 15, 2005, from http://www.census.gov/prod/www/statistical-abstract-2001_2005.html

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 298

In 2003, 17.8% of men and 10.2% of women age 65 and above were employed.

U.S. Census Bureau. (2005). U.S. Census Bureau, statistical abstract of the United States: 2004-2005. Population. (Section 1, Table 31, p. 35). Washington, DC: U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved July 15, 2005, from http://www.census.gov/prod/www/statistical-abstract-2001_2005.html

"This section presents statistics on the growth, distribution, and characteristics of the U.S. population. The principal source of these data is the U.S. Census Bureau, which conducts a decennial census of population, a monthly population survey, a program of population estimates and projections, and a number of other periodic surveys relating to population characteristics."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 490

86.3% of persons age 50-61 in the top 25% of income earners participated in the labor force in 2000.

45.3% of persons age 62-74 in the top 25% of income earners participated in the labor force in 2000.

34% of persons age 75 and above in the top 25% of income earners participated in the labor force in 2000.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 535

The labor force participation rate among single women age 65 and above decreased from 19.7% in 1970 to 9.7% in 1998, but increased again to 15.2% in 2003. The labor force participation rate among married females age 65 and above was lower than that of single females age 65 and above but increased over time. In 1970, the labor force participation rate among married females age 65 and above was 7.3% and in 2003 it was 11.3%.

The labor force participation rate among single men age 65 and above gradually decreased over time from 25.2% in 1970 to 19.4% in 2003. The labor force participation rate among married males age 65 and above also gradually decreased over time. However, the labor force participation rate among married males has been consistently higher than among single males in this age group. In 1970, 29.9% of married males age 65 and above participated in the labor force. In 2003, 19.9% participated in the labor force.

U.S. Census Bureau. (2005). U.S. Census Bureau, statistical abstract of the United States: 2004-2005. Labor force, employment, and earnings. (Section 12, Table 577, p. 376). Washington, DC: U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved July 15, 2005, from http://www.census.gov/prod/www/statistical-abstract-2001_2005.html

“This section presents statistics on the labor force; its distribution by occupation and industry affiliation; and the supply of, demand for, and conditions of labor. The chief source of these data is the Current Population Survey (CPS) conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau for the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).”

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 699

Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) to examine the experiences of retirees who were aged 51 to 61 in 1992 and therefore who were 61 to 71 in 2002, Cahill and his colleagues found, “80 percent of males and 51 percent of females” (51.2% as listed on Table 1, p.22) “had worked since age 49 and had an identifiable FTC* job in their work history.” (p. 8-9)

* FTC means full-time career. The authors define a full-time career (FTC) job as “one that consists of at least 1,600 hours per year (“full time”) and that lasts ten or more years (“career”).” (p. 8)

Cahill, E. K., Giandrea, D. M., & Quinn, F. J. (2005, September 29). Are traditional retirements a thing of the past? New evidence on retirement patterns and bridge jobs. Working paper. Retrieved July 18, 2006, from http://ideas.repec.org/p/boc/bocoec/626.html

"This paper investigates whether permanent, one-time retirements are coming to an end just as the trend towards earlier and earlier retirements did nearly 20 years ago. We explore how common bridge jobs are among today’s retirees, and how uncommon traditional retirements have become. Design & Methods: Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), we explore the work histories and retirement patterns of a cohort of retirees aged 51 to 61 in 1992 over a ten-year time period in both a cross-sectional and longitudinal context. Bridge job determinants are examined using bivariate comparisons and a multinomial logistic regression model of the bridge job decision.”

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 995

In 2005, individuals aged 45-54 worked an average of 41.7 hours per week. In 2005, individuals aged 55-64 worked an average of 40.5 hours per week. In 2005, individuals aged 65-74 worked an average of 33.0 hours per week. In 2005, individuals aged 75-84 worked an average of 28.7 hours per week. In 2005, individuals aged 85-94 worked an average of 30.4 hours per week. In 2005, the population worked an average of 39.6 hours per week.

Havens, J. (2006). [Analysis of the U.S. Census Current Population Survey for March 2005]. Unpublished raw data. Center on Wealth and Philanthropy for the Center on Aging & Work / Workplace Flexibility. Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA

"The Current Population Survey (CPS) is a monthly survey of about 50,000 households conducted by the Bureau of the Census for the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The survey has been conducted for more than 50 years. The CPS is the primary source of information on the labor force characteristics of the U.S. population. The sample is scientifically selected to represent the civilian noninstitutional population. Respondents are interviewed to obtain information about the employment status of each member of the household 15 years of age and older. However, published data focus on those ages 16 and over. The sample provides estimates for the nation as a whole and serves as part of model-based estimates for individual states and other geographic areas. Estimates obtained from the CPS include employment, unemployment, earnings, hours of work, and other indicators...They are available by a variety of demographic characteristics including age, sex, race, marital status, and educational attainment...occupation, industry, and class of worker."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 994

In 2005, 2.2% of the workforce aged 45-54 was retired. In 2005, 20.7% of the workforce aged 55-64 was retired. In 2005, 69.8% of the workforce aged 65-74 was retired. In 2005, 86.5% of the workforce aged 75-84 was retired. In 2005, 90.8% of the workforce aged 85-94 was retired. In 2005, 12.0% of the workforce was retired.

Havens, J. (2006). [Analysis of the U.S. Census Current Population Survey for March 2005]. Unpublished raw data. Center on Wealth and Philanthropy for the Center on Aging & Work / Workplace Flexibility. Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA

"The Current Population Survey (CPS) is a monthly survey of about 50,000 households conducted by the Bureau of the Census for the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The survey has been conducted for more than 50 years. The CPS is the primary source of information on the labor force characteristics of the U.S. population. The sample is scientifically selected to represent the civilian noninstitutional population. Respondents are interviewed to obtain information about the employment status of each member of the household 15 years of age and older. However, published data focus on those ages 16 and over. The sample provides estimates for the nation as a whole and serves as part of model-based estimates for individual states and other geographic areas. Estimates obtained from the CPS include employment, unemployment, earnings, hours of work, and other indicators...They are available by a variety of demographic characteristics including age, sex, race, marital status, and educational attainment...occupation, industry, and class of worker."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 993

In 2005, 10.9% of the labor force was self-employed. In 2005, 13.0% of the labor force aged 45-54 was self-employed. In 2005, 16.9% of the labor force aged 55-64 was self-employed. In 2005, 26.3% of the labor force aged 65-74 was self-employed. In 2005, 31.8% of the labor force aged 75-84 was self-employed. In 2005, 28.3% of the labor force aged 85-94 was self employed.

Havens, J. (2006). [Analysis of the U.S. Census Current Population Survey for March 2005]. Unpublished raw data. Center on Wealth and Philanthropy for the Center on Aging & Work / Workplace Flexibility. Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA

"The Current Population Survey (CPS) is a monthly survey of about 50,000 households conducted by the Bureau of the Census for the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The survey has been conducted for more than 50 years. The CPS is the primary source of information on the labor force characteristics of the U.S. population. The sample is scientifically selected to represent the civilian noninstitutional population. Respondents are interviewed to obtain information about the employment status of each member of the household 15 years of age and older. However, published data focus on those ages 16 and over. The sample provides estimates for the nation as a whole and serves as part of model-based estimates for individual states and other geographic areas. Estimates obtained from the CPS include employment, unemployment, earnings, hours of work, and other indicators...They are available by a variety of demographic characteristics including age, sex, race, marital status, and educational attainment...occupation, industry, and class of worker."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 990

In 2005, 50.8% of the population participated in the labor force. In 2005, 81.4% of individuals aged 45-54 participated in the labor force. In 2005, 63.0% of individuals aged 55-64 participated in the labor force. In 2005, 22.3% of individuals aged 65-74 participated in the labor force. In 2005, 7.8% of individuals aged 75-84 participated in the labor force. In 2005, 3.1% of individuals aged 85-94 participated in the labor force.

Havens, J. (2006). [Analysis of the U.S. Census Current Population Survey for March 2005]. Unpublished raw data. Center on Wealth and Philanthropy for the Center on Aging & Work / Workplace Flexibility. Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA

"The Current Population Survey (CPS) is a monthly survey of about 50,000 households conducted by the Bureau of the Census for the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The survey has been conducted for more than 50 years. The CPS is the primary source of information on the labor force characteristics of the U.S. population. The sample is scientifically selected to represent the civilian noninstitutional population. Respondents are interviewed to obtain information about the employment status of each member of the household 15 years of age and older. However, published data focus on those ages 16 and over. The sample provides estimates for the nation as a whole and serves as part of model-based estimates for individual states and other geographic areas. Estimates obtained from the CPS include employment, unemployment, earnings, hours of work, and other indicators...They are available by a variety of demographic characteristics including age, sex, race, marital status, and educational attainment...occupation, industry, and class of worker."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 978

"In 1950, 59.9 percentage points separated the labor force participation rates of men and women [aged 55 to 64] (86.9 percent and 27.0 percent, respectively). That gap narrowed 12.1 points in 2003 (68.7 percent for men and 56.6 percent for women), but men's rates were still higher." (p.88)

He, W., Sengupta, M., Velkoff, V., & DeBarros, K. (2005, December). Current population reports: Special studies: 65+ in the United States: 2005. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Census Bureau. Website: http://www.census.gov/prod/2006pubs/p23-209.pdf

"This report analyzes data for the population 65 and older, disaggregated into narrower age groups where possible."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 977

The median age of the labor force was 40.5 years in 1962, "the highest level attained before the Baby Boomers entered the labor force." It dropped steadily until 1980, and since then it has been rising, to 36.6 in 1990 and 39.3 in 2000. The median age is expected to return to its 1962 level, 40.6 years, in 2010. (p.36)

Fullerton H.F., & Toosi, M. (2001, November). Labor force projections to 2010: steady growth and changing composition. Monthly Labor Review, 124, 21-38.

"This article describes the labor force projections, made by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for 136 age, sex, race, or Hispanic origin groups. First, it discusses changes in the labor force that are attributed to changes in the labor force participation rates or to population changes...Then it examines changes in the labor force based on the dynamics resulting from persons entering, leaving, or staying in the labor force. Finally, it reviews the demographic implications of projected changes in the age composition of the labor force and population." (p.21)

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 976

"Projections indicate that by 2020, when all Baby Boomers will be 55 years or older, people in the 55 to 64 age group will represent 15.3 percent of the labor force, and those in the 65-and-older age group will account for 5.0 percent." (p.87)

He, W., Sengupta, M., Velkoff, V., & DeBarros, K. (2005, December). Current population reports: Special studies: 65+ in the United States: 2005. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved January 30, 2007 from http://www.census.gov/prod/2006pubs/p23-209.pdf

"This report analyzes data for the population 65 and older, disaggregated into narrower age groups where possible."

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 960

"It is anticipated that, in 2012, youths will constitute 15 percent of the labor force, and prime-age workers--those between the ages of 25 and 54--will make up 66 percent of the labor force. The share of the 55-and-older age group will increase from 14.3 percent [2002 rate] to 19.1 percent of the labor force." (p.37)

Toossi, M. (2004). Labor force projections to 2012: The graying of the U.S. workforce. Monthly Labor Review, 127(2), 37-57.

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 827

"Among older workers, the Working Retired represent 16% of 60-65 year olds and 19% of 66-70 year olds. When we add this segment of workers (i.e., the Working Retired) to those who never left the workforce, the percentage of Americans age 66-70 working or looking for work stands at approximately 37%, compared with nearly 60% of Americans age 60-65 and 78% age 55-59." (p.9)

MetLife Mature Market Institute. (2006, April). Living longer, working longer: The changing landscape of the aging workforce- a MetLife Study. New York, NY: MetLife Mature Market Institute, DeLong, D., & Zogby International. Retrieved August 10, 2006, from http://www.metlife.com/WPSAssets/93703586101144176243V1FLivingLonger.pdf

"This study describes the decisions that older workers are actually making about work and retirement. It reports on their experiences more than their expectations of the journey into retirement, assuming that life stage is not defined by some date, but is rather an ongoing process… It consisted of an interactive online survey conducted by Zogby with a panel of 2,719 respondents. To qualify for the study, participants had to be between the ages of 55-70. Slight weights were added to region, race and gender to more accurately reflect the population of U.S. adults. A primary focus of the 50-question survey was to better understand the experiences and behaviors of the aging workforce, so the survey included many questions asked only of people who were still working or seeking work, either full- or part-time.”

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 758

“NSCW found that men report that they have been in the labor force for more years (mean for men = 37.7 years; mean for women = 32.3 years). Furthermore, men have longer tenure with their current employers (mean 14.2 years) when compared with women (10.9 years). Even so, older women on average have considerable labor force experience and job tenure.” (p.5)

Center on Aging & Work / Workplace Flexibility. (2005, November). The diverse employment experiences of older men and women in the workforce. (Research Highlights No. 02).Chestnut Hill, MA: Bond, T. J., Galinsky, M. E., Pitt-Catsouphes, M., & Smyer, A. M. Retrieved July 31, 2006, from http://agingandwork.bc.edu/template_highlights

“This report is the second in a series of Research Highlights published by the Center on Aging & Work/Workplace Flexibility in collaboration with the Families and Work Institute. These Research Highlights present the findings of in-depth analyses of the Families and Work Institute’s 2002 National Study of the Changing Workforce (NSCW). This report compares and contrasts the experiences of men and women, 50 and older, in the U.S. workforce. Gender is an important lens for examining the employment experiences of older workers, in part because the work and family histories of men and women tend to vary across the course of their lives…The National Study of the Changing Workforce (NSCW) is conducted every five years. It surveys large samples of the U.S. workforce to collect information about both the work and personal lives of U.S. workers.”

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 703

Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) to examine the experiences of retirees who were aged 51 to 61 in 1992 and therefore who were 61 to 71 in 2002, Cahill and his colleagues found, “nearly half of self-employed FTC* workers who took on a bridge job were still employed in 2002 compared to only 37 percent of wage-and salary workers. In addition, while only 15 percent of wage-and-salary workers who took a bridge job have taken on a job in self-employment, 40 percent of self-employed FTC* workers took on a wage-and-salary bridge job. A similar story is observed with those who had taken bridge jobs but were out of the labor force by 2002.” (p.12)

* FTC means full-time career. The authors, define full-time career (FTC) job as “one that consists of at least 1,600 hours per year (“full time”) and that lasts ten or more years (“career”).” (p. 8)

The authors explain and define bridge jobs as some individuals /retirees “take on short-duration or part-time jobs after leaving full-time career (FTC) employment. These jobs bridge the gap between FTC employment and complete labor force withdrawal, and are aptly called “bridge jobs.” (p. 4)

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 702

Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) to examine the experiences of retirees who were aged 51 to 61 in 1992 and therefore who were 61 to 71 in 2002, Cahill and his colleagues found, “between 1996 and 2002, the percentage still on a FTC* job dropped from 42" (42.4% as listed on Table 4, p.25) "to 14 percent" (14.4% as listed on Table 4, p.25) "among men and from 51" (51.4% as listed on Table 4, p.25) "to 17 percent" (17.4% as listed on Table 4, p.25) "among women." (p.11)

“This paper investigates whether permanent, one-time retirements are coming to an end just as the trend towards earlier and earlier retirements did nearly 20 years ago. We explore how common bridge jobs are among today’s retirees, and how uncommon traditional retirements have become. Design & Methods: Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), we explore the work histories and retirement patterns of a cohort of retirees aged 51 to 61 in 1992 over a ten-year time period in both a cross-sectional and longitudinal context. Bridge job determinants are examined using bivariate comparisons and a multinomial logistic regression model of the bridge job decision.”

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 700

Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) to examine the experiences of retirees who were aged 51 to 61 in 1992 and therefore who were 61 to 71 in 2002, Cahill and his colleagues found, “in 1992, 66 percent of the men” (65.9% as listed on Table 3, p.24) “were still on their FTC* jobs, while 15 percent" (14.5% as listed on Table 3, p.24) “were employed on bridge jobs and 19 percent were not in the labor force. Among women, 73 percent" (72.7% as listed on Table 3, p.24) “were still on FTC* jobs, while the remaining respondents were divided almost equally between bridge job employment and absence from the labor force. Ten years later, only 14 percent" (14.4% as listed on Table 3, p.24) “of the (now much older) male sample was still on a FTC* job and 56 percent" (55.6% as listed on Table 3, p.24) “had exited the labor force. One-quarter of the male sample was on a bridge job in 2002." (25.3% as listed on Table 3, p.24). "The story is similar for females.” (p. 9-10)

* FTC means full-time career. The authors, define full-time career (FTC) job as “one that consists of at least 1,600 hours per year (“full time”) and that lasts ten or more years (“career”).” (p. 8)

The authors explain and define bridge jobs as some individuals /retirees “take on short-duration or part-time jobs after leaving full-time career (FTC) employment. These jobs bridge the gap between FTC employment and complete labor force withdrawal, and are aptly called “bridge jobs.” (p. 4)

Cahill, E. K., Giandrea, D. M., & Quinn, F. J. (2005, September 29). Are traditional retirements a thing of the past? New evidence on retirement patterns and bridge jobs. Working paper. Retrieved July 18, 2006, from http://ideas.repec.org/p/boc/bocoec/626.html

“This paper investigates whether permanent, one-time retirements are coming to an end just as the trend towards earlier and earlier retirements did nearly 20 years ago. We explore how common bridge jobs are among today’s retirees, and how uncommon traditional retirements have become. Design & Methods: Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), we explore the work histories and retirement patterns of a cohort of retirees aged 51 to 61 in 1992 over a ten-year time period in both a cross-sectional and longitudinal context. Bridge job determinants are examined using bivariate comparisons and a multinomial logistic regression model of the bridge job decision.”

Labor Force Participation

Statistic # 297

In 1990, 11.5% of persons age 65 and above were employed. In 2003, 13.5% of persons age 65 and above were employed.

U.S. Census Bureau. (2005). U.S. Census Bureau, Statistical abstract of the United States: 2004-2005. Population. (Section 1, Table 31, p. 35). Washington, DC: U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved July 15, 2005, from http://www.census.gov/prod/www/statistical-abstract-2001_2005.html