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Older Worker-Orientated Human Resource Practices, Wellbeing and Leave Intentions: A Conservation of Resources Approach for Ageing Workforces

Author

Listed:
  • Ben Farr-Wharton

    (School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA 6027, Australia)

  • Tim Bentley

    (Centre for Work + Wellbeing, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA 6027, Australia)

  • Leigh-ann Onnis

    (College of Business, Law & Governance, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia)

  • Carlo Caponecchia

    (School of Aviation, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia)

  • Abilio De Almeida Neto

    (Centre for Work Health and Safety, NSW Government, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia)

  • Sharron O’Neill

    (School of Business, University of NSW, Canberra, ACT 2612, Australia)

  • Catherine Andrew

    (School of Health and Society, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2500, Australia)

Abstract

At a time where there are ageing populations, global shortages of skilled labour, and migration pathways impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, retaining older workers presents as a vital strategic initiative for organizations globally. This study examines the role of Human Resource Practices (HRPs), which are oriented towards accommodating the needs of an ageing workforce in mitigating psychological distress and turnover intentions. The study collected self-reported survey data from 300 Australian employees over the age of 45, over two time points. Using structural equation modelling, the study analyzed the extent to which Older Worker-oriented Human Resources Practices (OW-HRPs) translate into employee psychological health and retention within organizations, through the mediation of ageism and work–life conflict. The results support our hypothesis that OW-HRPs are associated with lower ageism, better work–life balance; and in combination these reduce psychological distress and help retain older workers in the workforce. We conclude that OW-HRPs can foster work environments conducive to older worker wellbeing, supporting the retention of talent and maintaining effectiveness, in the face of substantial labour supply challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and an ageing population.

Suggested Citation

  • Ben Farr-Wharton & Tim Bentley & Leigh-ann Onnis & Carlo Caponecchia & Abilio De Almeida Neto & Sharron O’Neill & Catherine Andrew, 2023. "Older Worker-Orientated Human Resource Practices, Wellbeing and Leave Intentions: A Conservation of Resources Approach for Ageing Workforces," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(3), pages 1-13, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:3:p:2725-:d:1056657
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Lara Bellotti & Sara Zaniboni & Cristian Balducci & Luca Menghini & David M. Cadiz & Stefano Toderi, 2022. "Age Diversity Climate Affecting Individual-Level Work-Related Outcomes," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(5), pages 1-11, March.
    2. Kajitani, Shinya, 2011. "Working in old age and health outcomes in Japan," Japan and the World Economy, Elsevier, vol. 23(3), pages 153-162.
    3. Lara Bellotti & Sara Zaniboni & Cristian Balducci & Gudela Grote, 2021. "Rapid Review on COVID-19, Work-Related Aspects, and Age Differences," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(10), pages 1-24, May.
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