The world of work is changing. How can workers adapt to the challenges of today and be prepared for the workplace of tomorrow? We are facing a new work reality. What trends define that reality? How can those who have lost their jobs find high-quality new jobs? What can we do about the persistent long-term unemployment that continues to affect older people? 

Future of Work@50+ is a multiyear initiative that will discuss the problem areas, highlight what we have learned and, most important, suggest policy solutions to ensure that older Americans have access to good-quality jobs and develop the skills they need to retain or obtain them.

Issues related to jobs, unemployment and work opportunity remain at the forefront of concerns to older Americans. Although the unemployment rate has come down from its recent high, it remains far above the historical norm.

As the economy has moved toward recovery, employment and job quality has lagged. This multiyear initiative will highlight where the problem areas lie and suggest policy solutions to ensure that older Americans have access to quality jobs and develop the skills they need to retain and obtain them.

Research will focus on the experiences of the unemployed. Papers on skills training and workforce development assistance programs for older workers who have lost jobs will be presented.