The Austrian tourism region of Schladming-Dachstein has launched the "Senior Talents" programme. It takes advantage of the fact that there are many pensioners in the Styrian Enns Valley who are willing to work and are looking for meaningful employment, social participation and an additional income in retirement. It offers both older people and regional tourism businesses incentives for the further integration of senior citizens into society and provides businesses with access to experienced workers.
"Recruiting and retaining skilled workers in the long term are currently among the biggest challenges in our industry," says Mathias Schattleitner, Managing Director of the Schladming-Dachstein Tourism Association. "With this in mind, we have launched the new 'Senior Talents' project alongside many other initiatives. In this way, we are creating a win-win situation for everyone."
Initiative meets with great interest
The TVB Schladming-Dachstein model is constantly being developed further. A specially appointed steering group analysed the current situation, followed by workshops and an initial information evening entitled "Active in retirement". "We were surprised at how well the event was received," says Schattleitner.
TVB has therefore set up its own job portal online, which provides information about tourism businesses in the region that would like to employ older workers. It also provides answers to many unanswered questions as well as legal information on possible additional income during retirement. "We still see a need for action on the part of politicians here," emphasises Andreas Keinprecht, first chairman of the Schladming-Dachstein Tourism Association. "The additional income limits for pensioners are still too narrow in our view. It would be a huge opportunity to bring more experienced employees into the business."
"Work keeps you fit - physically and mentally."
Manfred Steinberger is one senior citizen who did not want to devote himself exclusively to "retirement" in his old age. The 65-year-old pensioner works part-time at the Hotel Schütterhof in Rohrmoos. "I always work wherever I'm needed. Sometimes I'm a hiking guide, sometimes I do sauna infusions. Today I'm looking after the swimming pool and guests, tomorrow I'm handing out the hire e-bikes," explains the Schladminger. "You're busy and always in contact with people. That keeps you fit - physically and mentally." Steinberger's boss Roland Gyger is also enthusiastic: "We are very happy that Manfred is bringing his experience to us. I can rely on him, and he always steps in when we need him."
Motivated until retirement
The German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) is also concerned with older employees. Preventive measures and concepts have been collected to maintain employees' health and ability to work over their entire working life. The now published practical brochure "Later Life Workplace Index (LLWI)" is aimed at companies of all sizes and sectors, managers, HR managers and works councils who want to actively set the course for the future of employment for older people. It offers concrete recommendations for action based on scientific research and supplemented by practical experience from the corporate world. The handbook can be downloaded as a PDF here. / red
