Don't be embarrassed about asking older workers for advice. If, like Edna, they've worked in the same job for a long time, they understand how things really get done and are familiar with the cycles and seasonal patterns that affect operations. Many older workers would welcome a change in their responsibilities, especially if they've been doing the same thing for a long time. A new challenge could bring them new life. For example, older workers' experience and knowledge of the organization make them ideal for training others.
Older workers can also make outstanding mentors for new employees.
They offer plenty of savvy and can frequently provide guidance that's unclouded by personal ambition. Probably the best way for younger supervisors to get past the stereotypes that hinder their effective use of older workers is to get to know those employees as individuals. After all, stereotypes usually fade away in the light of reality.