With each passing year, people usually gain more work and life experiences that help them continue moving forward with life. While those experiences can be applied in the workplace, many older workers say they do not have a fair chance to demonstrate this. This is because many employers still discriminate against workers who are over the age of 40. Workplace discrimination of any type is problematic, but people in Wisconsin who are closer to retirement may experience unique financial troubles when dealing with age discrimination.
The 2019 Ageism in the Workplace Study from Hiscox determined that men experience age discrimination more frequently than women, even though women experience more on-the-job harassment. The study found that only about one third of women felt that turning 40 years old had made it difficult to find new employment. When it came to men, 43% said age prevented them from getting new jobs.
Other results from the study are worrisome and indicate that ageism in the workplace is a serious problem. Around 67% of workers below the age of 65 plan to work past the age of 66, meaning that this generation plans to maintain their careers for much longer than their parents. Despite longer working careers becoming the norm, around one out of every five workers aged 40 or older has experienced some type of age discrimination at work. Of these, only 40% complained or filed charges. Those who do not say anything usually do so because they are worried about creating hostile work environments, or because they are not sure how to even make a complaint.
Sadly, some workers are even turning to antiaging treatments and procedures as a way to try and ward off or minimize ageism. However, no one in should have to go to such great lengths to try and avoid illegal workplace discrimination. Those who have experienced type of discrimination might find that seeking compensation through a civil claim can yield better results, including forcing Wisconsin employers to discontinue discriminatory practices.