Abstract
Objectives
This study explores how academic literature addresses the professional inclusion of older adults in the workforce. It investigates emerging patterns and proposed solutions to support later-life employment in the context of demographic ageing and the active ageing policy paradigm.
Methodology
The paper adopts a Structured Literature Review (SLR) methodology, combining bibliometric and thematic analyses. A total of 161 peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2012 and 2024 were analysed using performance metrics and co-occurrence clustering to identify key themes and intellectual trends.
Findings
The analysis identifies five main thematic clusters: policy narratives, digital inclusion, workplace flexibility, emotional well-being, and place-based autonomy. These findings reflect a shift from deficit-based to relational and context-sensitive understandings of ageing at work. However, the literature remains fragmented and limited in intersectional scope.
Value Added
This study provides a novel, multidimensional synthesis of the literature on ageing and work by integrating bibliometric and thematic approaches. It bridges conceptual gaps across disciplines and proposes a coherent framework to guide future policies, organisational strategies, and research on age-inclusive employment.
Recommendations
Organisations and policymakers should adopt inclusive, age-sensitive strategies. They should promote lifelong learning opportunities, enable flexible and phased retirement options, reduce age-related bias in human resource practices, and design physical and social environments that support autonomy, well-being, and meaningful participation for older adults.