The national survey of 214 HR directors suggests that on average they are concerned about 31% of their staff's effectiveness when they pass 65 years old.
More than half (54%) of respondents believe the number of older workers under their employment will rise in future.
Almost one-third (32%) of HR directors see their company's outlook as positive towards older workers and 54% believe their colleagues have a neutral attitude. Only 12% replied that their employer has a negative opinion of colleagues at or approaching retirement age.
The most common concerns voiced by HR directors around older workers are increased absence (10%) and the presence of an ageing workforce affecting recruitment and career progression (6%).
MetLife UK employee benefits director Tom Gaynor urged employers on the frontline to "react positively to demographic changes in the workplace".
"It’s encouraging that there are mainly positive attitudes, but there is still an undercurrent of concern and misguided thinking that could inhibit positive change," he said.
"Older workers have a tremendous amount to offer and shouldn’t be seen as a problem but as the solution to many workplace challenges.”?
