Recruiting and Retaining Older Healthcare Professionals: Evidence-Based Strategies for a Resilient Workforce

The global shortage of healthcare professionals is a critical challenge driven by demographic changes, workforce attrition, and increasing healthcare demands. Older professionals contribute valuable experience and interpersonal skills but are often underutilized due to stereotypes, health concerns, and challenges in adapting to new technologies. This systematic review, conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 reporting guideline, examined strategies to recruit and retain older healthcare professionals and to promote intergenerational collaboration. A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar for studies published before March 2025 that addressed recruitment and retention strategies, workplace diversity, and collaboration across generations. Of 224 records initially identified, 84 met the inclusion criteria and were synthesized narratively. Effective recruitment strategies included community-based outreach and flexible work arrangements, while retention measures such as phased retirement, mentoring programs, and workplace health initiatives supported knowledge transfer, job satisfaction, and workforce stability. Digital knowledge management and structured mentoring programs further facilitated intergenerational collaboration. A structured approach to workforce planning that integrates diversity and inclusivity can help mitigate healthcare workforce shortages by leveraging the strengths of different generations. Ensuring adaptable working conditions, intergenerational collaboration, and continuous knowledge exchange can strengthen workforce resilience and support the sustainability of healthcare systems. Future research should evaluate the long-term effects of these strategies on workforce stability and patient outcomes.