But tell that to employers in certain other fields, who still regard workers much younger than 60 as over the hill. A staff member at the Writer's Guild in California offers one example, explaining that it is increasingly hard for scriptwriters in the entertainment industry to get work after 45 or even 40. Given the power of TV and movies to shape attitudes, an absence of midlife and older writers can only reinforce ageist stereotypes and promote a youth culture. No wonder older characters and workers are virtually absent from the screen. For many Americans, retirement is a stage of life undergoing profound change.
Mixed signals abound.
Downsizing and golden parachutes are forcing many workers to leave in their 50s. At the same time, the minimum age for collecting full Social Security is gradually rising from 65 to 67. As life spans increase, his proposal could make sense for some. Whatever ultimately happens to the older pilots, who have vowed to keep fighting, they serve as a reminder that playing strictly by the numbers can be counterproductive. Before bookmarking this page in your browser, click here .