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How old is too old?by Jamie McKenzie(about author) |
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Despite the law prohibiting age discrimination in the hiring process, many people will find it difficult to secure a job once they pass 50, 60, and 70. Why are elders so poorly valued and rarely welcomed as workers? We welcome elders to serve in the Senate, the White House and the Supreme Court. We applaud the music of elders like John Williams, the legendary composer for 'Star Wars,' 'E.T.,' and ‘Superman,' even as he turns 90. But try applying for a job at the library shelving books. Try applying for a job at the bookstore shelving books. Apply for a job as a copywriter or a school principal. Be prepared for a chilling silence. Often the application is not even acknowledged. It seems to vanish into an abyss. There will be no phone call, no interview and no real opportunity, even though many of these employers post a strong statement declaring that they do not discriminate when it comes to age. “ . . . equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.”  Many baby boomers in the USA will live 15-20 years longer than their parents. While 65 was once thought of the age when folks should be turned out to pasture, the biological and mental realities of age have shifted so that many people might continue to work productively well past 65 if they wished or needed to continue. Some of us — like fine wine — get better with time and age. Our thinking deepens and our choice of words becomes astute. Our writing stems from a wisdom developed over time. Sagacity is generally in short supply these days, but elders are often well endowed with time-tested understandings. Earlier this year I began working as an usher at the Performing Arts Complex here in Denver for a company that values elders and hires many of them. It is a charming group of people who know how to greet patrons warmly and guide them to their seats expertly. At 76 years of age it is gratifying to be of service, earn some extra money and enjoy the Romeo and Juliet ballet seven times for free. Some of my usher colleagues are older than I am. It is worth noting that many of this same group also handle security at a local sports arena, checking vaccine records, searching bags and overseeing the ticket readers. While performing these tasks, they chat warmly with patrons as they enter, welcoming them and easing the anxiety caused by all the COVID inspired security measures.  “How old is too old?” Some people enter their eighties fit and sharp as ever, running or walking considerable distances each day. Their minds are alert and often clever. They make great employees in fields where charm and intelligence are valued. It would be wonderful if more companies understood this and welcomed elders. To ignore their job applications and refuse to interview them is a sin. |
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