Bridge Employment

Bridge Employment refers to the diverse forms of older workers' participation in the labour market that occurs between their retirement and their complete workforce withdrawal. Research over the last decade reveals that the long-term trend toward earlier retirement has slowed or reversed and the majority of older workers were employed or plan to work in part-time or short-duration jobs at some point following full-time career employment.

The reasons for Bridge Employment are diverse, but the benefits both for the individuals and for organizations are considerable: from satisfaction in retirement, to financial security and economic well-being in later life, as well as the retention of skills and experience by organizations. Drawing on international research expertise, this book offers an overview and analysis of bridge employment experiences in Europe and the US, and summarises the psychological, psychosocial, organizational and social benefits for employees, employers and society.

With the current debate in many countries about the aged labour force and costs of retirement, this book provokes debate and reflection for both organizational decisions and public policies. Consequently it will provide a fascinating read for students and researchers across a variety of subject areas.