Jobs for Older Americans Age 50 and Older

The Growing Need for Senior Employment

Many workers age 50+ are balancing multiple roles—raising children, helping aging parents, or managing health challenges—and this strains household budgets. As of recent years, about one in three older adults struggles to meet basic financial needs. (AARP)

Longer lifespans make supplemental income more necessary, even for those expecting to rely primarily on retirement savings.

Programs That Support Older Workers

BACK TO WORK 50+ (AARP Foundation)

AARP Foundation still runs BACK TO WORK 50+, a free program offering workshops, coaching, and job-search support for workers over 50. (AARP)

Key updates and data:

• In the 2022–2023 cycle, nearly 12,700 older adults living with low income accessed coaching, training, or other services via BACK TO WORK 50+. (AARP)
• The program runs both in-person and online sessions, with local community partners. (AARP)
• Coaching helps jobseekers update digital skills, sharpen resumes with keyword strategies, prepare for virtual interviews, and connect to employer networks. (AARP Help)

SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program)

SCSEP continues to be the federal program under the Department of Labor that offers training and work placements for low-income older adults. (DOL)

Current eligibility and features:

• Applicants must be at least 55 years old, unemployed, and have income no more than 125% of the federal poverty level. (DOL)
• Participants are placed in community service roles at non-profit or public agencies (e.g. schools, senior centers) and generally work about 20 hours per week, earning at least minimum wage. (DOL)
• The program is designed as a bridge to unsubsidized employment. (DOL)
• Annually, SCSEP serves tens of thousands of older adults. (olderworkers.workforcegps.org)

Other AARP Workforce Initiatives

AARP Foundation now supports additional programs beyond BACK TO WORK and SCSEP:

• Digital Skills Ready@50+ — Offers digital literacy training through community partners and online resources for those age 50+ needing to build tech skills. (AARP)
• Work for Yourself@50+ — Helps older adults explore self-employment, freelancing, or entrepreneurship with tools, workshops, and guidance. (AARP)

Updated Job Market Trends & Employer Attitudes

• The AARP Job Board continues to connect 50+ jobseekers with employers committed to age diversity. (AARP Job Board)
• Over 350 organizations nationwide have signed the AARP Employer Pledge, committing to inclusive hiring practices for older workers. (AARP Job Board)
• The concept of “age-friendly” occupations is gaining traction; research suggests that many jobs have become more accommodating to older workers over the past decades. (arXiv)
• Some companies are launching returnship or “Golden Intern” programs specifically for older adults returning to work after a break (e.g. Naborforce has one such program). (AARP)

Remote and flexible work remains an important avenue for older workers, especially those who prefer minimal commuting or flexible schedules.

Revised Article Text (with fresh data)

Here’s how your revised article could look, updated with current information:

Jobs for Seniors Age 50 and Older

The Growing Need

Many workers over 50 juggle raising children, caring for aging relatives, or managing health costs—all while trying to stretch limited budgets. As of recent data, nearly one in three older adults struggle to meet their basic financial needs. (AARP)

Longer lifespans and rising costs make extra income essential for a secure retirement.

Program Support for Older Workers

If you’re 50 or older, AARP Foundation’s BACK TO WORK 50+ program provides free workshops, personalized coaching, and job-search tools to help you compete in today’s job market. (AARP) In 2022–2023, about 12,700 older adults accessed these services. (AARP)

The federal Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) helps unemployed adults age 55+ with training and placements in community service roles while earning a modest wage. (DOL)

AARP also offers Digital Skills Ready@50+ to improve tech competence and Work for Yourself@50+ to support entrepreneurship for those over 50. (AARP)

Opportunities for Skilled Seniors

If you have a college degree or strong computer skills, AARP’s employment resources and partner employer network can help place you in roles that recognize your experience. Over 350 companies have signed the AARP Employer Pledge, committing to treat older applicants fairly. (AARP Job Board)

Some organizations even offer returnship programs designed to reintegrate older adults into the workforce (e.g. Naborforce’s “Golden Interns”). (AARP)

Remote and Flexible Work Trends

Remote work continues to be popular for older workers: less commuting, lower overhead, and flexibility. Through AARP’s job tools and partner platforms, seniors can find legitimate remote or hybrid opportunities. (AARP)

For those who prefer in-person work, the senior living industry remains a strong option. Employers often value the reliability, maturity, and dedication of older employees, particularly in environments with high turnover rates.

Why Working After 50 Matters

Staying engaged through employment brings not only income but also social connection, purpose, and cognitive stimulation. Perceptions around ageism are gradually shifting, and employers are increasingly acknowledging the value that seasoned workers bring.

If you’re age 50+ and seeking work, now is a great time to tap into national resources and programs to find the right job for you with more confidence.

Protecting Your Benefits While Earning Income

Before stepping into a new role, it’s essential to assess how additional income might affect your eligibility for government benefits such as Social Security, Medicare, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Consult with an ElderCounsel attorney (or trusted professional) to ensure your plan increases income without jeopardizing essential benefits.

Contact our office today to schedule an appointment. We can help you map a retirement plan that blends earned income with benefit protection. CALL (207)848-5600