Aging is associated with progressive decreases in aerobic power, thermoregulation, reaction speed and acuity of the special senses. These changes can reduce productivity, particularly in self-paced activities where the physical or mental input of the individual worker is the rate-limiting step in production. Many potential problems can be corrected by worksite modification, employee wellness programmes and retraining. Given wide interindividual differences in the abilities of elderly employees, and the fallibility of most test methods, the setting of appropriate and non-discriminatory standards for recruitment and continued employment of older individuals remains a difficult challenge for the industrial ergonomist. The social need for ever-increasing production also requires critical examination. Relevance to industry A progressive aging of working populations in the industrial nations poses important practical questions concerning the impact of these changes on productivity. What measures can be taken to extend the span of working life, and what is the best method of determining the age when retirement should occur?