Promoting healthy ageing at work through the development of coping strategies among senior workers

Abstract Background In France, the employment rate for individuals aged 50-64 has risen to almost 67% by 2023, with projections indicating that nearly one in three citizens will be over 60 by 2040. This demographic shift presents a significant labour challenge. To address this, the study explores how senior workers tackle workplace challenges and how their coping strategies influence healthy ageing at work. Methods This study explores critical factors in healthy ageing at work using a mixed QUAL/Quant methodology. 15 interviews provided insight into senior workers, while 28 participants from a French company completed an online questionnaire. Qualitative data were analysed using template analysis, and quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 20. Results The interviews revealed that senior workers’ problem-solving methods were grouped into three approaches: technical solutions (ergonomic adjustments, supportive equipment), coping strategies (help-seeking, utilisation crafting and developmental crafting), and mindset changes (metacognition, positive reappraisal). Among the senior group, the survey results showed that developmental crafting was a significant positive predictor of work engagement (β = 1.52, p< .05). Utilisation crafting and relational crafting were significant positive predictors of general health (β=.53, p< .05, and β=.50, p= .05, respectively). Conclusions This study not only emphasizes the significance of technological solutions but also underscores the critical roles of help-seeking, utilisation crafting, developmental crafting, metacognition, and positive reappraisal in fostering healthy ageing at work. These insights emphasize the need for ongoing development of human resource management strategies to address the challenges associated with ageing at work. Key messages • Our study finds senior workers employ diverse strategies - technical solutions, coping strategies, mindset shifts - to promote healthy ageing at work. • The insights highlight the importance of human resource strategies for addressing challenges of the ageing workforce, emphasizing proactive approaches.