Have you ever encountered questions such as the following:
• “Do you really think you could handle this job? You know it takes a lot of energy and enthusiasm. Besides, we are looking for someone with career potential.”
• “You don’t need this training program. At your age, what would the benefit be?”
• “Well, you are getting on. What do you expect at your age?”

Such comments reflect ageism—an attitude that makes assumptions about older persons and their abilities and puts labels on them. About 15 percent of Canada’s workforce is 55 and over.
They are often stereotyped and not hired or promoted. Using what you have learned in this chapter about hiring and accommodating the four designated groups, design a recruitment and retention program for older workers.