Digitalisation and Age Management. Elderly-centered Policies and Tools at Work.

Ageing population is an "irreversible" global trend, which has a significant impact on societies and economies, with relevant policy implications. Particularly, it influences the labour market by affecting the size, characteristics, and composition of the workforce. Therefore, identifying the most suitable tools for the effective and sustainable inclusion of older workers in the labour market is essential, and it is necessary to take into consideration the current digital transition and the consequent transformations for the organisation of work activities. What might be the role of digitalisation in the improvement of age management? At first sight, new technologies could be seen as a threat to older workers because, at least in the general opinion, this category of employees appears less flexible and cannot adapt easily to transformations, especially where the use of digital devices is concerned. Conversely, beyond stereotypes, a more in-depth analysis may hold some surprises since some technological applications at work may prove very useful for the elderly. Digital tools can not only embody the aim of facilitating work-life balance, but they can also be a sort of reasonable accommodation. Digital active ageing policies - which consist of the application of technological tools to promote the inclusion and participation of older workers - are necessary to face the current demographic transformation and digital transition with a conscious and balanced approach. For instance, the use of remote work and wearable technology might have positive effects on improving the employability of older workers, not just from the perspective of employees and employers but also for social security systems through the reduction of absences and injuries and more conscious retirement choices, as older workers will not be forced to retire prematurely to settle new personal or health needs. Although it may seem like a contradiction in terms, investing in older workers is the future, and improving digital active ageing policies and tools while minimising their critical issues and enhancing their benefits, might be the right direction.