By Ashley Andrus and Linda Anderson

An April 2009 New York Times article confirmed that unemployed baby boomers are facing some steep odds in the current depressed job market. They noted, “workers ages 45 and over form a disproportionate share (pdf) of the hard-luck recession category, the long-term unemployed — those who have been out of work for six months or longer, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.” On the bright side, some seasoned workers have avoided layoffs as employers utilize a “last hired, first fired” practice to ensure they are avoiding age discrimination.

A May 2009 TIME article discusses age-based stereotyping and its impact on performance, and confirms that impact on older workers is real. Again on the flip side, the effect is offset when a positive stereotype or example is presented at the same time. Experience counts!

Job search advice runs the gamut from the obvious (”spell-check your resume”) to the creative (”think like a gourmet chef“). If your efforts have yet to produce the results you want, why not try something different? We’ve found several resources on the web to make your job search quicker and easier, with the following tips: Read the rest of this article »

by Rosa Mazone

The “Aging of America” and the growing percentage of our population 65 and older, is a trend of undeniable consequence. While advances in medical knowledge and technology have increased our longevity, our culture’s historical view of old age and elders remains.

Many studies debunk myths including the common belief that genetics are destiny, and physical and mental deterioration are coded into our genes. In fact, the studies say, “the influence of genetics shrinks with the years, while lifestyle choices become increasingly important in shaping the quality of later life.” Among the most important lifestyle changes they recommend are engaging in activities and cultivating new friends. According to a recent study on successful aging, longevity, and vitality by the MacArthur Foundation, only 30 percent is genetic. The other 70 percent is attributable to disease avoidance, exercise of mind and body, and staying involved in life. Read the rest of this article »