Skip to main content

How to retain senior employees - before they change jobs

How to retain senior employees - before they change jobs

Late summer is peak season for job changes. Employees aged 60+ are switching roles more than ever before. This year, the number is expected to reach 50,000. So, if there was ever talk of an ageing burden in the labour market, it’s officially a thing of the past. Employers are actively competing to attract and retain older employees. 

Today, 325,000 Danes aged 60+ are in employment. But what does it take to retain even more seniors in the workforce? We asked both employers and employees, and surprisingly, their views align. Companies are focusing on flexibility and on valuing their senior staff – two factors that employees themselves also prioritise highly.   
 
Here’s what Danes say when asked what would make them stay one year longer in the labour market: 

Seniors are ready for more – and hope their health keeps up  

As the figures show, Danes aren’t just dreaming of fewer hours and flexible schedules that allow them to leave early to pick up grandchildren. Engaging and meaningful work tasks are also a strong motivator for postponing retirement.  
 
And, unsurprisingly, health plays a central role. Good physical and mental wellbeing is a key prerequisite for extending working life. Employers and employees share a mission to support wellbeing at work, and it benefits both parties.  
 
Here, Lars Paludan-Müller, Head of Corporate Health Solutions at velliv, shares five practical tips on how to create the best possible conditions for your senior employees.  

Portrait photo of Lars Paludan, Head of Health Business

How to create healthy working conditions for senior employees

  1. Flexibility is key

    • Employees aged 60+ are keen to contribute – just on different terms.
    • Consider offering reduced working hours, occasional days off and additional senior leave days.

  2. Recognise, appreciate and create meaning

    • Make room for insight and experience, e.g. by involving senior employees in professional discussions and problem-solving.
    • Avoid age-related stereotypes.Focus instead on skills and motivation.
    • Invest in employees aged 60+. They too seek purpose in their work.
    • Listen to concerns about health, energy levels and wellbeing, and take them seriously.

  3. Promote physical activity among senior employees

    • Create communities for physical activity at work, ideally including strength training.
    • Offer vaccination programmes.
    • Support and encourage preventive health initiatives focusing on diet, smoking, alcohol, exercise and sleep.
    • Be aware that many live with chronic pain. On average, Danes aged 45+ have 2.7 chronic conditions.

  4. Develop a clear senior policy

    • Send a clear signal that senior employees are welcome in your organisation.
    • Be specific about the opportunities and conditions you offer senior staff.

  5. Invite a conversation that matters

    • A senior dialogue and the transition to retirement is a matter of trust. Check in regularly with each individual.
    • Create a personalised employee plan focused on retention, development and, if relevant, gradual retirement.
    • Ask openly: “How do you see your role in the coming years?”

Do you need guidance on wellbeing and health?

If your company could benefit from professional advice or support regarding employee wellbeing, please reach out to our

corporate health team