The Challenges of America’s Aging Workforce with Beth Truesdale

In this episode of 'Risking Old Age in America,' host Harry Margolis speaks with Beth Truesdale, a research fellow at the W. E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, about the realities and challenges faced by America's aging workforce. They discuss why extending working years is not a feasible solution for many Americans due to health issues, family caregiving responsibilities, and job instability, especially for those in physically demanding jobs. Beth emphasizes the importance of improving job quality and implementing supportive policies at both state and national levels to better aid older workers. The conversation also addresses concerns about the sustainability of the Social Security system and potential policy changes that could alleviate financial stress for retirees. Topics 00:00 Introduction to the Aging Workforce Crisis 00:48 Challenges of Working Longer 02:25 Barriers to Employment in the 50s and Beyond 05:31 Policy Solutions for Job Quality 12:37 Impact of the Gig Economy 18:59 Social Security and Retirement Age Debate 25:24 Recommendations for Policymakers and Individuals 29:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Risking Old Age in America