More than two thirds (68%) of over-55s feel that the job market is closed to them, despite one in four wanting to work into their 80s, according to a study.
The research, commissioned by 55/Redefined and ProAge, also found that a quarter (24 per cent) of over-55s felt forced to retire before they wanted to.
When it comes to applying for roles, 60 per cent believe that it is difficult to apply for a job in their chosen career.
For currently employed over-55s, almost two thirds (64 per cent) are not getting leadership training, and a third have lost interest in their job due to lack of development opportunities.
As well as discrimination within roles, older workers face an even greater challenge in recruitment, particularly from younger HR leaders.
Only 24 per cent of HR leaders aged 25-30 were ‘very’ willing or motivated to recruit workers aged 55–75, a stark contrast to the 63 per cent of older HR leaders aged 46-50.
Commenting on the study, Lyndsey Simpson, founder and CEO at 55/Redefined, said: “Our research reveals that over 55s want to work and progress, but feel shut out, forced out or overlooked when it comes to their later life careers.
“Ageism is clearly still a reality for many.
“At a time when we are all living and working longer, it is in all our interests to stamp out this unfair and unacceptable discrimination.”
