Ageing in working life

The Government tasked Forte, in its 2026 appropriation directions (regleringsbrev), with producing a scoping overview of working life for older people. The focus includes, among other things, opportunities to work longer.

Ageism refers to prejudice or negative attitudes toward older people, which can lead to age discrimination in working life. Older individuals may miss out on jobs, skills development, or promotion, according to the Equality Ombudsman.

The Government has tasked Forte with analysing research needs related to ageing in working life. The assignment is part of the 2026 appropriation directions. It also forms part of the national programme for research on working life.

The scoping review was prepared by Andreas Motel-Klingebiel, Professor of Ageing and Later Life, and Charlotte Wåhlin, Adjunct Associate Professor of Occupational Medicine. Both are affiliated with Linköping University.

Focus of the scoping review

The review examines the opportunities for older women and older men to remain in working life. It also addresses the social consequences of leaving the workforce and losing workplace communities. A key aspect of the analysis is the exploration of differences between women and men.

The assignment was completed and submitted in September 2026.