AARP Survey Shows Widespread Discrimination, Hardship Among NYC Seniors
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- When New Yorkers over 55 lose their jobs, it takes them about four months longer to find a new one than their younger counterparts, according to a new study by AARP.
And many of those over 55 with jobs who are working have experienced some form of age discrimination at the workplace, the organization reported.
In a survey, 46 percent of respondents said they are concerned about age discrimination at work. They also reported that the following statistics about either themselves or a friend or family member who has turned 50"
• 26 percent were not been hired for a job because of age;
• 24 percent were passed over for a raise or promotion due to age;
• 23 percent were laid off, fired, or forced out of a job since turning 50;
• 27 percent were encouraged or forced to retire before they preferred to;
• 23 percent subjected to unwelcome comments about their age.
And these statistics are particularly troubling given many seniors' financial conditions, AARP said.
"More and more people -- in fact, half of all 50-plus voters in New York City – say that they're going to have to delay their retirement for financial reasons – including a fairly good chunk that aren't certain they're going to be able to retire at all," said AARP spokesman David Erwin.
AARP said the issue will likely play a role in the choice for voters over 55, as 75 percent said they were very or extremely likely to vote for a candidate who will ensure workplace opportunities for older workers, and 72 percent said those elected should back laws and policies in support of older workers.
AARP said it has been working to bring the issues about discrimination and financial hardship among seniors to the mayoral and City Council candidates.
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