Japan middle-senior employment trends show rising work age

A survey by Mynavi regarding middle-senior employees in Japan reveals that while the average desired working age has risen to 62.0 years, only 30.1% of those in their 40s and 50s actively wish to continue working beyond age 65.

Among the minority who do wish to work past 65, approximately 78.3% prefer to remain regular employees, and 67.2% desire to stay in their familiar roles and workplaces. The data also highlights a generational gap, with over half of middle-senior workers reporting friction with younger supervisors, primarily regarding work processes.

Experts note a growing tension between Japan's aging population and its traditional employment models. While increased longevity necessitates longer working lives to sustain the pension system, the existing ‘lifetime employment’ framework and seniority-based wages may struggle to adapt to a society where people work well into their 70s.