The unemployment rate for workers 55 and older has been higher during the latest recession than earlier ones. Predictions are that older workers will spend a longer time unemployed partly due to stereotypes about these workers being less flexible and less able to learn new skills. Despite the current situation, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the percentage of workers age 55 and older to rise from 13 percent to 20 percent by 2015. Employers will need to think about what older workers want in a job and the AARP hopes employers will recognize strengths such as loyalty, work ethic, and people skills.
See "Older workers, still vital, consider "what's next"", Chicago Tribune, March 18, 2003