Necessity And Possible Ways Of Using Qualifications Held By People Aged 50+

The article addresses issues relating to ageing societies and the need for so-called age management that should be followed by enterprises. The question of ageing and its consequences for labour market and enterprises was noticed by the European Union at the end of 20th century. In East-Central Europe this problem has just emerged, but it will become serious during the next 10-20 years. The main goal of the article is to prove, based on demographic data, that young population will be subject to decline on the labour market, whereas population aged 50+ will grow in size. The other aim of the paper, following from the main objective, is to discuss benefits and risks involved in employing older people. The discussion will be based on the literature on the subject. The results of the analysis allow to conclude that enterprises will have to employ older workers, which, however, does not entail less effective functioning of business. In fact, competent management of staff representing different age groups may lead to greater productivity and more effective functioning of enterprise. The analysis is based on statistical data derived from Eurostat and results of research conducted in Poland with reference to working population aged 45+.