The Effects of Technology on Older Workers

The Effects of Technology on Aging Workers

Tonya Richardson

COMM/156

July 8, 2012

Molly Shields

The Effects of Technology on Aging Workers

With today`s advancements in technology, older workers in the workplace will be forced to retire or adapt to new technologies. According to Charness, "Paper, quill, and inkwell have been replaced by keyboard, mouse, and spreadsheet program (or database). The process of exchanging information has changed from the use of physical courier to electronic transmission". (p.6). Times have changed; we no longer have to rely on face-to-face meetings or have to write letters and wait on a response through the mail. Technology has made it possible for businesses to communicate on a "large scale" with the use of computers, cell phones and fax machines, and as employees, we must keep up-to-date with technological advances to keep our current positions within the company. Today most jobs or careers require some type of knowledge about technology; whether it may be operating a headset at a fast food restaurant, or working on a computer in a corporate office; you will be required to operate different types of technological devices to keep your current position with an employer. Some aging workers shy away or refrain from using technology, because they feel they have been doing a certain job for so long, and do not see the need to change their ways of working. Even though the use of technology has made it possible for workers to be more efficient, multi-task, and reduce human error "on the job", most aging workers still have their doubts. Technology has been advancing at a fast rate over the past 20 years, and some aging workers still refuse to accept technology, but I only foresee it advancing further in the future, so aging workers will need to keep-up-to-date on technology advancements. Let`s explore some of the technological advancements in today`s workplace.

According to Lee, Czaja, and Sharit, "The changes of the work environment of the 21st century have created new knowledge, skill, and ability requirements for workers. For example, ongoing developments in technology are reshaping production processes, and the task content and skills requirements of jobs. Most workers use a computer, the Internet or some other form of technology at work, and this number will continue to grow as will the scope and sophistication of technology" (17p). Almost every job today deals with technology and the use of a computer at one point or another. Technology is key and relevant in today`s workplace, and no matter what type of job or career you pursue, technology will be a part of your job, and a requirement to fulfill your duties at work. Although, many older workers see technology as a nuisance, and do not see the need for change, we must create a spark for them to see how technology can make their job better and more productive. By implementing training programs geared toward older workers, with more insight into all technology advances, current and past, could be more beneficial for them to learn technological advances in today`s workplace. Most elder workers do not see a need for technology in the workplace or at home, so it makes it hard when you introduce it into their work environment, and expect them to be enthusiastic and eager to learn, which makes it hard for elder workers to keep their current positions in the workplace. Older workers who have been working for an employer for over 20 years should be seen as an asset; instead of seen as an employee who is washed up, out-dated or a has been.

Elder employee`s are assets to the companies they work for, and most are devoted employees who have always kept their companies best interest at heart; by devoting many years of service to the company's success. They have vast knowledge and work experience, and have been reliable throughout the year. Elder workers also take less personal days, and are more devoted to work than the younger generation entering the workforce, who rely more on trying to balance work and their personal lives; instead of a devoted worker to the company. Many young employees entering the workforce have small children that require frequent doctor visits or school functions, which most parents are bound by duty to fulfill for their families, and older workers have already raised their children, so therefore they will be more of an asset to the company for taking less personal days. Older workers also feel they should be loyal to the company they have spent many so many years working for, and feel more a part of a family, rather than an employee. They