Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 5.
The house of work ability (European Commission 2006)
Many workers, particularly those in low-skilled jobs, require up-skilling and re-
skilling to adapt to changes in the workplace, especially in terms of IT. Equally, those
who are currently marginalized need relevant skills to access employment. In addition
to the provision of training for those in work, a range of interventions is also required
to help those who are at present outside the labour force, to support their re-integration.
4.1.4.
Issues of work-life balance
Flexibility is needed to allow workers in mid-life to move from full-time employment
to more flexible arrangements, including reduced hours or fewer responsibilities. This
is important in a number of respects. Firstly, family obligations may change for some
older people who may have responsibilities to care for ageing parents/partners and
young grandchildren and who may seek to combine their work and their caring
activities more flexibly. Secondly, older workers may be encouraged to remain in the
workforce for longer where they have opportunities to work fewer hours or do less
strenuous work.
For variations in work-life balance to become a reality for older workers, a shift in
attitudes on the part of employers, regulatory authorities, trade unions and indeed
workers themselves is required. This could be facilitated through a greater sharing and
more dissemination of good practice.
