Qualità dell’invecchiamento e capacità lavorativa: una mappa concettuale dei fattori chiave dell’equilibrio vita-lavoro in età avanzata

In this contribution, the authors examine the main factors that have prompted both the European Community and national institutions to monitor workers’ health with increasing attention. On the one hand, Europe is facing a demographic shift due to persistently low fertility rates and population ageing. On the other hand, the continued participation of older individuals in the labour market has become crucial for the sustainability of national economies. The dynamics underpinning this issue are multifaceted: labour market structures and welfare policies must evolve to accommodate the needs of an ageing workforce, transitioning from traditional economies of scale to so-called ‘economies of experience.’ Beyond employment, particular attention is placed on the role of the family and, more broadly, on non-working life, which impacts workers both organisationally and psychologically. This initial contribution seeks to provide a conceptual map of the factors that may influence workers’ decisions, with a particular focus on older workers. While not exhaustive, the framework offers a structured overview of what the literature reveals about work-life balance, as well as the personal and policy-level implications of workers’ choices to remain in or exit the labour market.