India

Older Jobseekers in Bengaluru Face Financial Pressure and Age Bias, Survey Shows

By The Hindu Bureau

A survey of 306 senior jobseekers at the 11th Job Fair for Senior Citizens in Bengaluru, organised by Nightingales Medical Trust (NMT) on October 11, found that financial difficulties are pushing many older people to look for work. The fair attracted 692 senior jobseekers from a range of professional, technical, administrative and service backgrounds and 62 employers.

The survey revealed that 69.9% of respondents supported at least one other person, and nearly half supported two or more people. Although 41.2% described themselves as financially independent, many still cited financial difficulties as a reason for seeking employment, indicating a gap between independence and security.

More than half of the respondents (54.2%) had already applied for jobs. Of the 198 respondents who identified challenges in finding employment, 97 (about 49%) said employers preferred younger candidates. Difficulty finding suitable vacancies was also reported as a barrier. Other factors such as lack of confidence, family responsibilities, transport and working hours were mentioned less frequently.

Seventy‑three point two percent of respondents held graduate or higher qualifications. They expressed interest in roles such as administration, clerical and supervisory work, consultancy, teaching and accounts.

The survey also examined how financial circumstances affected treatment of older people. Forty‑two point eight percent said they were treated with respect regardless of financial dependence, while 32.4% reported unequal treatment, hesitation to express needs or opinions, or neglect linked to financial dependence. Fully financially dependent respondents reported greater difficulties than those who were financially independent.

Respectful workplaces were important to 73.5% of respondents, 53.9% valued flexible working hours, and 46.4% sought job security. Full‑time employment was preferred by 72.5% of respondents, and 70.9% expected a monthly salary of more than ₹30,000.

Sixty‑five point seven percent of respondents were interested in training or were unsure whether they needed it. Areas identified for training included artificial intelligence tools, job‑specific skills and basic computer skills.

NMT highlighted that older women, who are underrepresented among jobseekers and may face additional financial vulnerabilities, need greater attention. The Trust called for age‑inclusive recruitment, greater employer awareness of the value of experienced workers, accessible re‑skilling programmes and jobs suited to older people’s qualifications and capabilities. It also urged policymakers to strengthen social protection for senior citizens.

Published – October 23, 2026 07:37 pm IST