HARRISBURG – Gov. Edward G. Rendell proclaimed Sept. 20-26 as “Employ Older Workers Week’ to remind employers that older workers have much to offer in the workplace and to honor the achievements of the state’s mature job force.
“Pennsylvania is blessed with a wealth of older people who know the value of work and possess unique skills,” Rendell said. “Older adults often have decades of experience and knowledge that can easily be transferred to many lines of work and they are willing to learn new skills.”
Some older workers are seeking a financial boost, while others work or volunteer because they simply enjoy the effort and environment. Employers are urged to hire older workers who have a strong work ethic and desire to do well.
Today, more than 15 percent of Pennsylvania’s population is age 65 and older and it is estimated that by 2020 – for the first time in history – the percentage of residents under age 15 will be the same as that of people over age 65. This milestone heralds the large numbers of older adults who will need and want to work.
By 2010, it is estimated that the number of workers age 65 and older in Pennsylvania will top six million; a 12.4 percent increase from 2000.