Age discrimination remains an unfortunate reality in the hiring landscape. But recruiters and employers hesitant about hiring older workers should be aware that there are many benefits to an older workforce. Below are just afew:

1. Older workers tend to be more loyal than younger hires. Workers over 50 years old are less likely to “job hop” and tend to remain with a company for a longer period of time, in essence reducing the costs associated with turnover and training.

1. Older workers tend to be more detail oriented than younger workers. Some studies have suggested that is because they are more focused on tasks and less likely to be distracted.

1. Reduced costs often come with hiring older workers especially since many who are returning to the workforce after retirement are more likely to look for part-time work and bring their own benefits. And in those cases when older workers don’t bring their own healthcare and other benefits, the reduced costs from low turnover more than makes up for any healthcare cost increases.

1. Well developed interpersonal skills can pay dividends in reducing workplace drama and co-worker conflicts. Older workers bring with them years experience in handling difficult people and situations. That maturity can translate into less interpersonal conflicts on the job and more productivity.