Grant: CIHR Café Scientifique Program -Strategy for Patient Oriented Research (Ontario)

This study investigates how work stress, age, work status, and mental health are related to seniors aged 65 or older who are still employed in Canada. The study aims to explore how working in later life affects mental health and to learn from the experiences of seniors with a history of mental health issues. The study uses data from the Canadian Community Health Surveys and includes a sample of 9,170 working seniors and conducted qualitative interviews concerning their lived experiences with mental health while working. The results show that post-retirement work is a protective factor against mental disorders and that older age and full-time work are protective factors for depression and anxiety. However, extreme work stress is a significant determinant of both mental disorders. In addition, our qualitative interviews observed instances of discrimination and stigmatization directed toward individuals with a history of mental health issues. The study highlights several other factors that increase the risk of mental disorders, including being female, single, a smoker, and having multiple health issues. The research suggests that older individuals should be encouraged to work even after retiring, but it is important to ensure that their skills match with less physically demanding job roles. Additionally, it is crucial to implement measures to combat the negative attitudes and unfair treatment that older workers with a history of mental health problems may face in the workplace. The study's findings have implications for policies and interventions aimed at improving the mental health and well-being of seniors in the workforce.