How do older workers experience hybrid work? A thematic analysis
Ibrahim Bilau et al.
What the paper says
Purpose This study aims to explore experiences, preferences and challenges of workers aged 50 and older in hybrid work settings, with a focus on their adaptation to workplace dynamics, mentorship roles and responses to technology resistance stereotypes. Design/methodology/approach This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews and surveys with 19 US-based older workers in hybrid roles across various industries. An inductive thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo to identify key themes. Findings Five themes emerged from the analysis: (1) inclusivity highlighted the need for tailored technology support and flexibility, especially among mid-level managers; (2) workplace dynamics revealed mentorship and connection challenges due to career-long in-person experience; (3) work-life balance benefited from flexibility for caregiving and fatigue reduction, though blurred boundaries persisted; (4) productivity improved with fewer commutes and distractions; and (5) personalization reflected varied remote work preferences and self-management demands tied to physical needs. Practical implications Organizations should offer targeted IT training, outcome-based performance management, flexible schedules and ergonomic workspace environments to enhance older workers’ well-being and productivity. Originality/value This study enriches hybrid work research with age-specific insights, challenging technophobia stereotypes and highlighting caregiving, physical and mentorship needs for inclusive workplace policies.
1 citation
Evidence weight
Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40
| F · citation impact | 0.16 × 0.4 = 0.06 |
| M · momentum | 0.53 × 0.15 = 0.08 |
| V · venue signal | 0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03 |
| R · text relevance † | 0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20 |
† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.