The ObamaCare employer mandate that requires employers to provide medical insurance for their employees makes older workers completely radioactive. Employers have a financial interest in staying away from employees in an age cohort that has the highest medical expenses and isn't yet eligible for Medicare.
You described it perfectly. For practical reasons, no one wants to hire the “over 50” worker (though it has been going on even before Obamacare was enacted).
Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot, those are the exceptions; and maybe those people with exceptional career skills can still get hired. Otherwise, as you said, older workers are radioactive.
I hope folks here will take the time to read the job discussion forums found on the internet (50+ worker). It paints a sad and serious picture for many older Americans. Trust in God is the only answer for us all.