THE PERCEPTIONS OF LOWER INCOME SENIOR CITIZENS IN INDIANA ABOUT WORKING IN THE LODGING AND FOODSERVICE INDUSTRIES

Abstract

The greatest challenge since the 1990s for the lodging and foodservice industries has been labor shortage. The mature population is a viable target in looking for qualified employees for the lodging and foodservice industries. The purpose of the study was to better understand the perceptions of work in lodging and foodservice held by senior citizens. The relationship between the perceptions of senior citizens about working in the lodging and foodservice industries and their demographics such as gender, race, age, level of education, annual income, employment status and health conditions were identified. Surveys were sent to two organizations that worked closely with seniors in Indiana. Data from 110 useable surveys were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, factor analysis and multiple comparisons. Overall, participants preferred part-time work with regular hours. They also enjoyed interaction with customers and coworkers. However, they perceived that it is stressful to work in the lodging and foodservice industries. Furthermore, the respondents did not believe there are job opportunities for them. The following three factors were extracted from factor analysis: (1) ease of finding jobs, (2) stress in the workplace, and (3) time and money issues related to work. Participants who were retired and not seeking jobs viewed the ease of finding jobs significantly different from others with various employment status. As their age increased, they tended to prefer part-time work and regular shifts. The difference became significant between those who were above 80 years of age and those who were younger.