More than half of new jobs created over the next decade will be filled by people aged 65 and over.
Analysis of Office for National Statistics data by Rest Less suggests over-65s will make up 282,000 of a total of 546,000 new employees by 2030.
Due to the increased UK life expectancy and changes to the state pension age, the top age group will make up 746,000 of a total
employment growth of 1.2million by 2060.
Over-65s currently make up 11 per cent of the workforce, with 1.3million now employed.
Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, said: “The lucky ones who are in good health and who enjoy their jobs continue working beyond their retirement age as a positive lifestyle choice – but there are others who can’t afford to retire.
“A worrying amount find it difficult to remain in the workforce because of caring responsibilities or health problems.
“Many other older people would like to work if they had the chance but have been frozen out of the labour market because of age discrimination and outdated stereotypes.
“With growing numbers of older people who need or want to work, it is important that they’re given every opportunity to do so, and that employers are ready to take on people from this age group.”
Stuart Lewis, of Rest Less, a jobs site for the over-50s, added: “Our population is growing and people are living longer, healthier lives.
“Today’s over-65s are healthier and more active than previous generations and many who are fit and able to work tell us that they have no intention of fully retiring any time soon.
“People’s reasons for continuing to work post-state pension age vary.
“From those choosing to top up their pension pots, to those who want to keep working for the love of the job or for the health and well-being benefits.”
