When discussions about age diversity take place, attention often focuses on recruitment, retention and retirement, less attention is paid to care-giving. Yet care-giving may be one of the most significant age-related workforce issues facing employers today.

Recent research has highlighted growing care-giving responsibilities across all generations of the workforce. However, the burden is particularly significant for many employees in mid-career, especially those balancing work alongside caring responsibilities for ageing parents, partners or other family members.

As populations age, these pressures are expected to increase. Many employees now find themselves supporting both older and younger family members simultaneously, leading to the emergence of what is often described as the “sandwich generation.” The implications for employers are substantial.

Care-giving responsibilities can affect well-being, attendance, performance and career progression. Without appropriate workplace support, organisations risk losing experienced employees at precisely the point where their expertise is most valuable. Importantly, care-giving should not be viewed as an isolated well-being issue…it is fundamentally connected to age diversity.

The ageing of populations, longer working lives and increased longevity mean care-giving responsibilities are becoming a normal part of working life for many employees. Forward-thinking employers are responding by expanding flexible working practices, reviewing leave policies and providing practical support mechanisms for carers. These interventions benefit not only employees but organisations themselves through improved retention, engagement and workforce stability.

The challenge now is to recognise care-giving as a workforce issue rather than a personal issue. Age-inclusive organisations understand that employees do not leave their life experiences at the workplace door. Supporting people through different stages of life is increasingly becoming a competitive advantage.

The Age Diversity Forum View

As longevity increases and careers extend, care-giving will become a defining workforce issue. Employers that recognise and respond to this reality will be better placed to attract, retain and support talent across all generations.