Great news for businesses struggling with workforce challenges: the solution may already be within reach, and it involves embracing the wisdom and experience of older workers in innovative new ways.

Recent comprehensive research involving over 2,000 workers aged 50 to 75 and nearly 280 organizations has uncovered promising strategies that help experienced employees stay engaged and productive. The findings paint an optimistic picture of what's possible when companies prioritize flexibility and respect for their seasoned team members.

The research, conducted by the Advisory Committee on Workers Aged 45 and Over in Québec, reveals that a significant portion of the workforce—about half of all workers surveyed—are genuinely interested in extending their careers when the right conditions exist. This represents an enormous opportunity for businesses to tap into decades of invaluable knowledge and expertise.

What makes experienced workers want to stay? The answer is refreshingly straightforward: flexibility and purpose. An impressive 54 percent of respondents said they would be motivated to continue working if offered phased-in retirement options without obligations to leave entirely. This shows that workers don't necessarily want to stop contributing—they simply want more control over how and when they work.

Even more encouraging, 52 percent expressed interest in transitioning to self-employed consultant roles with their current companies, while 45 percent would love to join expert pools that organizations could consult on demand. These findings demonstrate that retirement doesn't have to mean a complete exit from the workforce—it can be a beautiful transition into new, flexible arrangements that benefit everyone.

The desire to share knowledge emerged as a powerful motivator, with 55 percent of workers expressing enthusiasm about transferring their skills and expertise to younger colleagues. This represents a golden opportunity for companies to establish mentoring programs that not only retain experienced workers but also accelerate the development of newer employees—a true win-win situation.

Progressive companies are already seeing success with these approaches. In the private sector, 46 percent of organizations have implemented measures to encourage workers over 50 to remain employed, recognizing the tremendous value these individuals bring, particularly in customer relations where their expertise and commitment shine brightest.

The research also highlights important considerations about work-life balance. Many workers expressed desire for reduced physical workloads and opportunities to take on training or supervisory roles—adjustments that companies can often accommodate relatively easily while retaining crucial institutional knowledge.

While it's true that some workers are ready to fully retire to travel, volunteer, or spend time with family—and that's absolutely worth celebrating—the research shows that many others are eager to stay connected to meaningful work when offered the right flexibility.

The path forward is clear and encouraging: by embracing flexible work arrangements, creating opportunities for knowledge transfer, and valuing the contributions of experienced workers, companies can successfully address workforce challenges while enriching their organizational culture. This isn't just about filling positions—it's about recognizing that experience, wisdom, and flexibility can create workplaces where everyone thrives across all stages of their careers.