The Dutch population continues to work to an older age, generally doing so in good health. Even at an advanced age, most people are physically and mentally able to perform their work. However, the groups of people who are unable to do so, such as those with little education or those who work in physically demanding jobs, require our ongoing attention. This is the outcome of a study conducted by RIVM.
For this study, RIVM compared workers aged 55 and older in 2010, 2015 and 2019. On average, the first group continued to work for another 8.5 years; those aged 55 in 2019 are expected to work for another 11 years. This means that, on average, the latter group continues to work 2.5 years longer than the group from 2010.
Additional working years in good health
On average, workers spend these additional 2.5 years in good health and with a good work ability. ‘Work ability’ means that they are physically and mentally able to do their work. In the entire period from the age of 55, people now work for an average of 1.5 years in poor health and 2.5 years with a reduced work ability.
Some groups do require special attention
RIVM emphasizes that groups working more years in poor health and with a reduced work ability require ongoing attention. These are, for example, people with little education or those who have demanding work, such as workers in the construction sector, agriculture, industry and education. Employers and the government can play a major role in this regard. For example, by helping to ease the workload, offer these people targeted support, or give them the opportunity to stop working at an earlier age.
RIVM carried out this study on behalf of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment.