More than a quarter (27%) of employees over the age of 55 do not feel supported in the workplace, according to research by health insurance provider Bupa.
Its 2025 Bupa Wellbeing index, which surveyed 502 UK business leaders, also found that respondents aged over 55 most commonly want flexible-working patterns (41%) in terms of support to remain in work. This is followed by time off for health appointments (31%) and periods of serious ill health (21%), along with support for physical health, such as private medical insurance (19%).
Half (50%) believe working past retirement age will help keep their brains active, and 27% said staying in the workforce beyond retirement age will help them to live longer.
Those who have re-entered the workforce said it has given them a stronger sense of purpose (36%), improved mental wellbeing (26%), and a chance to continue learning (24%). It has also improved their physical health (19%) and some have experienced weight loss (9%).
A third (36%) said employers should play a role in keeping people in the workplace, while 83% believe government should reward employers which promote workplace health.
Carlos Jaureguizar, chief executive officer for Bupa Global, India and UK, said: “Our latest Bupa Wellbeing index makes it clear that workplace health strategies must evolve to meet the needs of an ageing workforce. This is a shared responsibility for healthcare providers, employers, employees and government, where together we must build a healthier and more sustainable future of work. We must recognise the immense value that every generation brings to the workforce.
“We support the premise of the Keep Britain Working Review that enabling people to stay in work longer, with health and wellbeing support, is supportive of economic resilience and long-term workplace sustainability. We are calling on the review to take bold action: to recognise healthy workplaces through a kitemark accreditation, to incentivise all employers to provide a baseline of health and wellbeing support, and to create a dedicated fund that helps SMEs give their people the support they deserve.”
