Older people in the workplace

I think it would be unfair to have different sets of rules for workers based on age and could cause a divide and resentment. If everybody was treated well, then there wouldn't be such a need. Many work places are having to be less rigid in practices because of the pandemic. My daughter's work have moved almost entirely to wfh and have a much smaller office set up as a result. Although on maternity leave at the moment, she will only go into the office once a month or so. But it is flexible. Some people prefer to go into work and that is being accommodated to.
I also think that you may have been working for a long time but stuck in your ways. It isn't always good to say I've always done things a certain way. I'm not saying that applies to you! I taught for many years and can see both sides. However I learned new skills right up to retirement and was happy to implement them in my teaching.

I think it would be divisive.

Too. Sorry, typo!

No a worker could be mature more experienced but lacking in motivation. A worker could be young lacking experience but driven and keen to learn. I think work place rules should be universal.

I think the one concession that could be made to older workers is for them to be allowed to work part time if they request to, I’m sure one of the main reasons older people have left work is that working from home or being furloughed made them reevaluate their life, realise how deep their exhaustion was, and living on less money became more attractive than continuing that lifestyle.

I’m retired so it doesn’t actually affect me, but I do think part time working might be attractive to many older workers.

Yes I went part-time for my last few years. It was a God send.

The NHS have suspended the abatement and 16 hour rules to support retire and return ....this means an employee can retire then return and receive more than their previous take home pay in pension and new pay ( eg my colleague now works 3 days but receives more than she previously picked up for 5 days) ....all my team who are 55 and over have all now put in for it ( myself included) .... I can't wait til May 31st

I think it depends what the rules are. Probably health and safety? I think rules should normally be the same for everyone and should only be those that are necessary for the good running of the business. But there should always be discretion, so that management can make adjustments where appropriate.
My last Head was fantastic in allowing compassionate leave to staff when needed, way beyond our contracts.