The threat of severe labour problems in the near future is dampening as a result of workers staying in the workforce for longer periods, a new study finds.

In 2006, 12 per cent of Canada’s force was comprised of 55 to 64 year olds, up 2 per cent since 1976 according to the Participation of older workers study.

Here are some of the main findings of the study:

• 76% of men ages 55 to 59 had a job or are looking for one,
• 53% of men and 37% of women ages 60 to 64 were in the work force,
• 56% of Canadians ages 55 to 64 were in the workforce,
• 68% of Alberta residents ages 55 to 64 had a job, the highest of any province,
• Over 60% of residents ages 55 to 64 had jobs in Saskatchewan and Manitoba,

An increased desire to work, higher levels of education and a greater attachment to the workforce are three factors that demonstrate an increase in the amount of older workers remaining in the workforce.

Furthermore, more companies are now allowing their workers to have different work arrangements, such as being self-employed, which entices older workers to continue to earn a pay cheque.

One problem that this presents is that as workers get older they are more likely to need medical attention. In turn, the study found that workers ages 55 to 59 took 10 sick days in 2006, 3 more then their younger counterparts. Workers aged 60-64 took 12 days.

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