[Aging and technology: physical condition in a post-industrial society].
Compulsory retirement, normally set at 65, may be considered discriminatory by people who wish to continue in their current employment to a greater age. The aging process sometimes limits the performance of daily work, particularly in occupations that demand a high rate of energy expenditure. However, this is not a general rule; there are many individuals older than 65 years (particularly those who have remained physically active) who can still carry out moderate physical tasks without fatigue. This article reviews various aspects of occupation, including the evaluation of work performance, and the beneficial effects of programs designed to increase functional capacity in the context of compulsory retirement. Biological age seems a useful criterion in deciding upon the appropriateness of mandatory retirement when reviewing individual cases. The authors recommend adopting a form of health hazard appraisal and measures of physical condition (including aerobic power, muscular strength and reaction time) as a part of such an evaluation, while recognizing the need for more precise methods of identifying those who can remain in gainful employment beyond the age of 65 years.
Shephard
R
R
Département de médecine préventive, Université de Toronto, Canada.
Noreau
L
L
D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology* / Q000523:psychology; D015444:Exercise; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006801:Humans; D013677:Medical Laboratory Science / Q000639:trends*; D010809:Physical Fitness; D012179:Retirement; D014937:Work
Vieillissement et technologie: la condition physique dans une société post-industrialisée.