When publishing job postings, employers in the Washington, D.C. metro area and elsewhere often specify that they prefer applicants with related job experience. However, it is clear that some workplaces only value work experience on paper. Age discrimination has skyrocketed over recent years, leaving older workers who have the knowledge, experience and ability to perform a variety of jobs without any options.
A growing problem
A poll from AARP found that around 33% of the U.S. workforce is age 50 or older. Of these workers, 78% say they have either personally experienced or witnessed age related workplace discrimination. AARP also reports that nearly 50% of workers aged 55 and older in the job market are considered long-term unemployed. This means that despite wanting to work, they have been out of a job for at least six months. Examples of discrimination older workers face include being:
- Passed over for promotions
- Denied employment
- Fired
Proving discrimination
Being discriminated against because of one’s age is a devastating experience. Unfortunately, securing a remedy for that discrimination is not always easy. When bringing an age-related discrimination case, one must demonstrate that age was the only motivating factor.
In a society that values experience but not older workers, victims of age discrimination often find themselves facing an uphill battle. Economic damages like lost wages can even permanently alter plans for retirement. Having the right help can be extremely helpful for those who are pursuing legal action, especially since navigating the federal, state, and local age discrimination laws by yourself can be confusing.
