There are positive and negative elements of employing workers over the age of 65. One of the disadvantages of having workers over the age of 65 in the workplace is the elderly having more resistance to adaptation in the work environment. In most situations they would rather leave their jobs than adapt to workplace changes. Needless to say this leads to added costs of hiring and training new employees. Workers over 65 are also more prone to injury and sickness as they grow frail and can lead to higher healthcare costs.

However, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages as workers over 65 are experienced, knowledgeable and experts in their professions. Their work ethic is strong, and can be valuable mentors to others in their profession. They are also considered loyal, trustworthy and reliable. In conclusion, the Social Security benefits would be available longer if we had more individuals investing into the program instead of withdrawing from it.

Is old just a number or is it really just a state-of-mind? According to the Websters NewWorld Dictionary, old is defined as having lived or been in existence for a long time, mature in judgment, wise, not new, worn out, shabby, having existed long ago, and ancient. Nowhere in the Websters Dictionary does it say anything about what age is considered old. However, how do we determine when a person is no longer useful or productive in the workforce? Age does not really have a lot to do with it. In this paper, we will show the advantages and disadvantages and the effects of being 65 and over.