A community activist group recently raised concerns about the challenges faced by elderly job seekers in SoCo. The deputy director of the Society for Community Organisation, Sze Lai-shan, emphasized the increasing difficulty for individuals aged 65 and above to re-enter the workforce, especially after the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to Sze, one of the main obstacles for elderly job seekers is the digitalization of many jobs, making it harder for them to adapt. Additionally, employers are hesitant to hire elderly individuals due to concerns about insurance costs. Some employers find it expensive to provide insurance for older workers, and issues with the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) not covering individuals above the age of 65 further complicates the situation. The overall decrease in job opportunities post-pandemic exacerbates the challenges faced by elderly job seekers.
Despite the eagerness of many elderly individuals to work and improve their financial situation, Sze highlighted that some job positions require long working hours of up to 12 hours a day. As a social worker, she recommended that employers consider shorter shifts to accommodate elderly workers and suggested that the government should play a more active role in supporting elderly job seekers. Sze proposed negotiations with insurance companies to provide affordable coverage for elderly workers and extending MPF policies to cover individuals beyond the age of 65.
Moreover, Sze mentioned that although employment rates have started to rise following the pandemic, workers in sectors such as construction, catering, and retail are experiencing significant pay cuts of up to 40 percent. This wage reduction adds to the financial strain faced by elderly job seekers and further highlights the need for additional support from the government and employers.
In light of these challenges, it is crucial for policymakers, businesses, and community organizations to collaborate in creating more inclusive and supportive employment opportunities for elderly individuals in SoCo. By addressing issues related to insurance, retirement funds, working hours, and fair wages, society can ensure that elderly job seekers are not left behind in the post-pandemic recovery efforts. It is essential to recognize the valuable skills and experiences that older workers bring to the workforce and provide them with the necessary resources to thrive in the evolving job market.