SHRM’s Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. Testifies on the Value of Older Workers

On Mar. 25, SHRM CEO and President Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. testified before the Senate Special Committee on Aging during the hearing “Experience Matters: Seniors and the Workforce.” He emphasized the economic, organizational, and personal value of older workers, and the need to align workplace practices and public policy with the realities of today’s workforce.

Taylor noted that as America’s workforce population ages, supporting older workers is one of the most reliable levers to sustain national productivity and competitiveness. Work provides more than income; it offers purpose, connection, and identity. Many older Americans are not working out of necessity but because they want to contribute, learn, mentor, and lead.

Research supports this: Employed older adults experience better cognitive and physical health, lower rates of depression, and improved well-being. Employers also benefit as research from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development found that firms with more workers ages 50 and older are shown to be more productive. Additionally, SHRM research has shown over 80% of HR professionals value older workers for loyalty and expertise, and more than 90% report they perform as well or better than other employees.

Yet outdated assumptions and policies often push experienced workers out, limiting both opportunity and economic potential. Taylor called for modernizing approaches — flexible work, lifelong learning, phased retirement options, and removing public policy disincentives — to unlock the value of this “untapped talent.”

In closing, Taylor reminded the Senate: “Talent does not expire. It evolves.” Aligning policies and practices with this reality can strengthen organizations, the economy, and the health, dignity, and purpose of millions of Americans.