Differences in Occupational and Health Accommodations for Older Workers by Workplace Size: A Text Mining Analysis of Open-Ended Responses

Abstract

Abstract Objectives As labor force participation among older workers continues to increase, the nature of workplace accommodations may vary according to workplace size. In this study, we aimed to clarify the current status and characteristics of workplace accommodations that address the age-related declines in physical function among older workers, including declines resulting from personal illness or injury, across workplaces of different sizes. Methods A questionnaire survey was conducted from October to November 2024 among 500 workplaces affiliated with the Meihoku Labour Standards Association. Free-text responses regarding workplace accommodations for workers aged ≥65 years, with additional analyses for those aged 60–64 years, were analyzed using text mining, correspondence and co-occurrence network analyses. Results Responses were obtained from 260 workplaces (52.0%). Among these, 101 workplaces (38.8%) reported providing workplace accommodations for workers aged ≥65 years to address age-related declines in physical function, and 66 workplaces (25.4%) employed workers aged ≥65 years with personal illnesses or injuries. In small workplaces, terms related to physically demanding tasks, such as “working at heights,” “heavy loads,” and “night work,” were identified. In medium-sized workplaces, terms related to individual adjustments, such as “individual,” “preferences,” and “number of days,” were characteristic. In large workplaces, terms indicating institutional measures, such as “systems,” “restrictions,” and “environment,” were identified. Conclusion The nature of workplace accommodations for workers aged ≥65 years differed by workplace size. Although small workplaces primarily focused on task-level adjustments, large workplaces were more likely to establish institutional support systems. Developing support systems tailored to workplace size is important.