New research from Canada Life shows that 19% of workers aged 55 and over feel discriminated against in the workplace – this equates to over 3.9 million older workers.

The findings come as 37% of over-55s now expect to work beyond their state pension age (up from 33% last year). The research highlights the importance for employers to create a workplace where employees of all ages can thrive, Canada Life said.

UK adults say that flexible working (80%) is the most important measure an employer can offer to support and attract an older workforce. This was closely followed by having more part-time opportunities (78%) and anti-age discrimination policies (77%). A similar number feel that appropriate workplace benefits (76%) would help retain an ageing workforce while 75% are looking for new skills training.

Employees are also looking for more from their employer in terms of the protection products and services they offer. When thinking about working beyond their state pension age, employees likely to do so said income protection was the top product they’d like (40%), followed by critical illness cover (39%) and life insurance (36%).

Dan Crook, protection sales director, Canada Life, said: “The UK economy is facing a significant labour shortage due in part to the ‘silver exodus’ from workplaces. However, as some of these people think about un-retiring, this presents a significant opportunity for employers. Not only to focus on attraction and retention, but to entice older workers back into the workforce, creating diversity of thought and age.

“Now more than ever, employers must think carefully about how they can create and nurture a healthy and happy workforce, introducing benefits to suit a wide variety of circumstances and needs. Employing a mixture of workers of all ages will not only create an environment in which employees can share experiences and skills, but it will also bring a broad range of perspectives to the table.”