The Appropriate Work Environment for Older Employees: The Case of Slovenia

Abstract Background: The increase in population life expectancy in developed economies is also reflected in the aging of the workforce; therefore, enterprises should create an appropriate work environment for all employees, emphasizing the older ones. Objectives: The major objectives of this paper are to establish the impact of appropriate working conditions and training programs for older employees on their work motivation, as well as to establish the latter’s impact on the older employees’ work engagement in Slovenian medium-sized and large enterprises. Methods/Approach: Structural equation modeling explored the links between four constructs – appropriate working conditions, training programs, work motivation, and work engagement. Results: In Slovenian enterprises, appropriate working conditions and training programs for older employees positively impact their work motivation. Moreover, the work motivation of older employees positively impacts their work engagement. Conclusions: These findings can be useful for employers or managers for developing targeted employee motivation and employee engagement programs to leverage the talents and dedication of older employees.