Older nurses: A literature review on challenges, factors in early retirement and workforce retention

Abstract

Introduction:The widespread shortage of nurses has been exacerbated by an ageing workforce. Though skilled and productive, older nurses are more vulnerable to the physical and mental demands of nursing. Hence, this review was performed to determine the existing evidence on challenges faced by older nurses, factors which promote or deter retirement and strategies that could help in their retention. The results of this review would help with the implementation of age-friendly initiatives to enable older nurses to work longer, while simultaneously allowing institutions to maintain highquality nursing care. Methods: A search was done using three databases, namely MEDLINE, the Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and PsycINFO. Primary studies and reviews published between 2004 and 2015 were retrieved. Keywords used were 'older nurses', 'retirement', 're-employment' and 'retention'. Results: Articles retrieved were mainly qualitative studies. A few quantitative surveys and reviews were reported. The definition of older nurses was inconsistent across the literature. Personal health concerns and limitations, computerisation and shift work were common challenges faced by older nurses, while monetary factors, health and workload were consistent themes on early retirement. Financial reasons were also identified as factors associated with retention, along with flexible schedules. Almost all strategies suggested in the literature for retaining older nurses lacked empirical testing. Conclusion:The ageing process may render certain tasks less desirable and more challenging for the older nurses. Employers could pay attention to the needs of an older workforce through improved workplace practices and being familiar with factors associated with early retirement and retention.

Nurses' intention to remain employed in hospitals: Understanding the shortage in the context of Myanmar

“…Perhaps it could be explained as age or years of experience increasing nurses' levels of commitment to the profession (Nogueras, 2005;Uthamanuthaman, Chua, & Ang, 2016).…”

Does nurses’ health affect their intention to remain in their current position?

“…, Uthaman et al . ). However, the extent that health issues affect nurses’ intention to leave employment or the profession is not known.…”

“…Nursing as an occupation is physically demanding. The nature of nursing work can place physical demands on the body that may reduce the capacity for a nurse to remain employed; 'lighter' workloads, flexible work schedules and ergonomic supports may be needed for older nurses (Tourangeau et al 2010, Uthaman et al 2016. However, the extent that health issues affect nurses' intention to leave employment or the profession is not known.…”

Triage Knowledge of Emergency Rooms Nurses at Dr Soetomo Regional General Hospital

“…In the mid-40s, physiologically, there is a decrease in sensory ability which usually begins with a decrease in visual acuity, which can also be followed by a decrease in hearing function. 16 Overworking in old age is also very closely related to chronic pain such as neck pain, back pain, and pain related to inflammatory processes such as arthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders. 17 Nurses on their unproductive period with hard work were prone to chronic pain condition.…”