Influencing Factors on Intent to Leave the Current Employer and Occupation Among Elderly Wage Workers: A Comparative Analysis Based on Engagement in Simple Labor Jobs

Abstract

This study investigated factors influencing elderly wage workers’ intentions to leave their jobs, aiming to guide human resource management strategies and employment policy. The study differentiated turnover intentions into leaving the current employer and changing the occupation, with a focus on whether the workers are involved in simple labor. Through a nationwide survey of 503 workers aged 60 and above, using descriptive statistical analysis and Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR), it was found that these workers generally showed low turnover intentions. However, those engaged in simple labor were more inclined to leave their occupation than those in more complex roles. The study also found a significant influence of work meaningfulness and job autonomy on both types of turnover intentions, overshadowing traditional factors like wages. For non-simple labor workers, caregiving responsibilities greatly impacted their decision to leave their current employers. The findings underscore the importance of considering factors beyond wages in recruitment, job design, and policy development for elderly wage workers to improve job retention and satisfaction.