Work organisation and staff planning for nursing staff aged 50 and over

Future developments in the field of care within the Swiss healthcare system make it essential to harness the potential of older workers. This study examines the need for measures to adapt the working conditions of nursing staff aged 50 and over in the Department of Medicine at Winterthur Cantonal Hospital. The data collection was carried out using focus groups (n=12). The results were validated and supplemented through two expert interviews (one internal and one external). The survey data were analysed using content analysis. The areas of work organisation, staff development, leadership, workplace health management and the implementation of organisational measures within the workplace have been identified as key areas for action, and proposals for organisational measures are being developed. Raising awareness within the organisation regarding age stereotypes is considered a necessary accompanying process.