"A growing body of research continues to show that older workers are generally more productive than younger employees. Annie Coleman, founder of consultancy RealiseLongevity, analyzed the data and highlighted a 2025 study finding peak performance occurs between the ages of 55-60. Writing in the Stanford Center on Longevity blog, she cited research examining 16 cognitive markers that confirm that although processing speed declines after early adulthood, other dimensions improve, and overall cognition peaks near retirement age."
"These factors matter more as AI starts to eliminate jobs for grads and entry-level candidates, increasing the value of experienced workers who can mentor other employees. A 2022 meta-analysis concluded that professional teams tend to function better when they have company veterans among them, as did Bank of America's findings [PDF] two years later. Likewise, a Boston Consulting Group study in 2022 showed age-diverse teams outperformed homogeneous ones, with the best results coming when older workers' judgment combined with younger employees' digital skills."
""In meeting their responsibility for long-term risk and growth, companies should begin with clarity. Map the age profile of the workforce by role and seniority," Coleman wrote. "Identify where people in their fifties and early sixties are exiting, and whether those exits reflect performance or design. Treat age as a strategic variable in the same way firms now treat gender, skills, or succession risk."
A 2025 study found peak performance occurs between ages 55–60. Research across 16 cognitive markers shows processing speed declines after early adulthood while other cognitive dimensions improve, producing overall cognition that peaks near retirement age. Over the past 15 years some qualities such as vigilance may worsen with age, but abilities to avoid distractions and accumulated knowledge increase. AI-driven job displacement for graduates and entry-level workers raises demand for experienced employees who can mentor others. Meta-analyses and corporate studies find teams with veterans and age diversity outperform homogeneous teams. Organizations should map workforce age profiles and treat age as a strategic variable.
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