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Where Can Older Workers Go? Regional Restructuring and Occupational Opportunity

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  • Hanika, Sebastian
  • Focacci, Chiara Natalie

Abstract

This paper examines how occupational restructuring within local labour markets shapes the employment opportunities of older workers. Using longitudinal Swedish register data covering workers across 69 functional local labour markets between 2017 and 2023, we show that greater occupational restructuring is associated with greater occupational narrowing among older workers. This relationship is moderated by local labour market characteristics. Thicker and more dynamic labour markets, with greater occupational diversity and job churning, provide broader opportunities for occupational adjustment. The findings highlight the importance of regional opportunity structures for old-age employment in ageing economies.

Suggested Citation

  • Hanika, Sebastian & Focacci, Chiara Natalie, 2026. "Where Can Older Workers Go? Regional Restructuring and Occupational Opportunity," SocArXiv ws57n_v1, Center for Open Science.
    • Handle: RePEc:osf:socarx:ws57n_v1
    DOI: 10.31235/osf.io/ws57n_v1
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    References listed on IDEAS

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