During the 1990s, older workers experienced a revolution in employer attitudes. In the early part of the decade, senior workers often found their jobs eliminated. In the latter years of the 1990s and the early part of the new decade, in the face of a tight labor market, employers are asking those thinking of retirement to stay, even offering benefits to those who are part-time.

Baby boomers are nearing retirement. Whether they retire or continue to work depends a lot on flexibility. Some are willing to delay retirement or return to work if they work part-time. Others are willing to work if they can do so at home using a computer.

While it is true that the slowdown in the economy has caused some layoffs, they have not been widespread enough to indicate any disproportionate effect on older workers. Experts say that employers still like to retain retirement-age workers because they have important expertise, are loyal, and provide networking contacts.

(Updated February 1, 2001)