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Ninety percent of older employees report age discrimination at work

Ageism in the workplace is still an issue, report finds

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By:
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Mark Huffman
Reporter

Mark Huffman has covered consumer issues since 2004, with a special focus on protecting and empowering older adults. A former news correspondent for the Associated Press Radio Network, Westwood One, and ConsumerAffairs, Mark brings decades of journalistic experience to RetirementLiving.com. He is passionate about giving consumers a voice and helping them make informed decisions. Mark has also created educational content, including Senior Scam Alert, a video resource designed to help seniors recognize and avoid fraud. He holds a B.A. from the University of Kentucky and lives with his family in Richmond, Virginia.
old man blocking his face with his hand: Photo by John Sekutowski on Unsplash

Photo by John Sekutowski on Unsplash

Key Insights

  • When workers feel disrespected because of their age, it affects far more than their mood — motivation, loyalty, and long-term engagement also take a hit.
  • Respect across generations is essential for a healthy, productive workplace.
  • New data shows age bias is still a widespread problem, especially for employees over 50.

Workers approaching retirement sometimes don’t enjoy those last years all that much. A new study reveals that age bias is not only alive in U.S. workplaces, it’s thriving.

According to Resume Now’s Age Disrespect Report, nine out of 10 employees over 50 say they’ve faced age discrimination, with many reporting they earn less than younger colleagues for the same role and often feel disregarded by them.

The survey of 878 employees across the country paints a troubling picture of what it’s like to grow older at work. Nearly half of respondents said they “often” feel disrespected by younger coworkers, and 83% said they at least occasionally experience such treatment.

For seasoned professionals who have spent decades building skills and institutional knowledge, the lack of respect — whether subtle or overt — can erode morale and chip away at engagement. As the report notes, moments of dismissal or condescension don’t just cause personal frustration; they can create wider communication breakdowns and deepen generational divides.

Ageism’s tangible impact

The survey found that age discrimination is far from merely a matter of attitude. Many respondents reported that bias translates into tangible career setbacks:

  • 58% earn less than younger coworkers in the same role.
  • 24% have been passed over for challenging projects.
  • 18% have been excluded from company meetings or events.
  • 15% have seen promotions go to less experienced younger employees.
  • 12% say they’ve been pressured to retire or targeted during layoffs.

The study’s authors conclude that these forms of exclusion send a clear, damaging message to older employees: their contributions may no longer be seen as valuable. That perception, in turn, can drive talent out the door — or discourage veteran workers from putting their best effort forward.

Not giving in

Despite the challenges, older workers aren’t simply throwing in the towel. The survey shows resilience and determination remain strong:

  • 91% say their work is still meaningful.
  • 81% view their age as an advantage.
  • 97% believe their employer values their institutional knowledge.
  • 96% believe society respects older workers as much as younger ones.

Experts suggest that fostering genuine, two-way respect between generations could benefit both employees and organizations. That means not just avoiding stereotypes, but actively recognizing — and rewarding — the experience older workers bring to the table.

The report concludes that fair pay, open communication, and inclusive opportunities can close the generational gap, boost collaboration, and keep seasoned professionals engaged for the long haul.