Working and Still Working : Boomers in the Workforce

I've heard it said that the "golden years" are known as such because "it takes a lot of gold to grow old".

A recent poll of Associated Press-LifeGoesStrong.com reveals that 44 percent of boomers responding to the survey are "very" or "extremely worried" about being able to cover medical costs as well the the cost of long-term care.

In Massachusetts, it is predicted that nearly 27 percent of the workforce will be made up of workers age 55 or older by 2020. By 2030, it's estimated that about a third of the state's population will be 55 and over.

There are many reasons as to why Boomers are staying in the workforce but certainly economic uncertainy is a major factor.

Many of the factors concerning Boomers are well known: A poor economy; rising medical costs; concerns about Social Security; job insecurity; losses in investments; fears of job loss combined with concerns of bias against older workers; as well as the cost of providing financial assistanc to  elderly parents, adult children and/or grandchildren.

As you look to the future, what are your concerns or desires about remaining in the workforce? Do you envision working full-time for as long as possible? Shifting to a reduced schedule? Venturing into something on your own?

And ---- what are types of changes do you feel will be needed by employers and workplaces to accomodate older workers?