In most people's minds there's a powerful connection between 'work' and 'worth'. It means that when paid employment no longer dominates our lives, we often feel less valuable to family, friends and society at large. Even voluntary workers can feel 'invisible', as if their contribution counts for less than that of their paid colleagues.

Whatever our age, contrasting attitudes to paid and unpaid work can have real impact on self-confidence and morale. And somehow it gets all the more serious when the combined threats of ageing and stereotypes are heading towards us...

Over 50s - the lowdown
But hold on a minute. Let's take a look at the facts. Today's over 50s have more disposable income than our parents had at the same age, and, well, 50 isn't the same as it was in Mum and Dad's day...

Most of us will live longer lives, but thanks to the mixed blessing of medical progress and shrinking pensions, we'll probably be in paid work for a good deal longer than the previous generation.

And there's more... All in all, we can be a bit more choosy about the way we spend our time. We've amassed a boatload of skills and insights through our lives at work, at home and at play. We can change careers to match our aspirations for a better lifestyle (you just can't take that plunge when you're hamstrung by mortgage payments and bringing up baby) and part-time work's often a realistic option.

But here's the catch: all that means is that the over 50s tend to be the first in line when jobs need doing - for free.

Voluntary, valued and valuable
In fact, we older adults are a willing and enthusiastic breed. We're much more likely to do voluntary work than the younger, busier, better paid and seriously stressed people around us. The figures are astonishing. Look at them for yourself.

Look at work in terms of value given rather than remuneration paid, and the picture finds a clearer focus. And most would argue that the unpaid work they do is a positive force in their own lives, using their expertise, filling a real need, developing new skills and giving a sense of fulfilment.

Truth is, we all need work.
Whether it's learning a language, planting trees, running a business or doing the grandchildren's school run, work keeps the brain buzzing and society moving. So however you choose to fill your life, take time to acknowledge what you're doing, why you're doing it and the difference you make.

Paid or unpaid, workers are valuable and no-one's invisible.

Can you see me now?

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