Occupational Safety and Health Challenges Among Ageing Population in Asia

The ageing workforce in Asia presents significant occupational safety and health (OSH) challenges, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the risks, interventions, and policy responses. As demographic shifts lead to an increasing number of older workers remaining in employment, age-related physical, psychological, and social factors impact their workplace safety and well-being. This systematic review explores the primary OSH challenges faced by ageing workers across various industries in Asia, including physical vulnerabilities, cognitive decline, and socioeconomic constraints. Our systematic search of electronic databases yielded 19 relevant studies, which were analyzed to evaluate the extent of OSH risks and the effectiveness of workplace interventions. Findings indicate that musculoskeletal disorders, reduced adaptability to technological advancements, and social stigma related to ageing significantly affect older workers. The review highlights the need for age-sensitive workplace modifications, ergonomic interventions, mental health support, and inclusive OSH policies tailored to the needs of ageing workers. Successful initiatives in Japan and Singapore demonstrate the potential benefits of structured workplace adaptations and policy reforms. The study underscores the urgency of implementing targeted strategies to promote safer, healthier, and more productive work environments for older workers in Asia.