I don't quite understand that.
From my experience, most people in their 50s are more skilled, dedicated, dependable and stable than most in their 20s, 30s and even 40s. Why is it that an employer whould shy away from someone in their 50s??
Is it that they demand more pay? More benefits?
What's the deal here? It just doesn't seem to make much sense.
Several reasons:
1) Employers stuck in the 1960's mindset: "Well, he will only have 10 to 15 years to be with the company!" -- reality, most workers only stay 2 to 6 years.
2) Older workers mostly demanding larger salaries.
3) Older workers less likely to want to spend 10-14 hour days at office.
Those in there 50's have more experience and are earning more. Employers dont want to pay the higher salary for a position that does not require that much experience. Many also question the person who is willing to accept less income than their experience should demand. Is there something wrong with them? Are they really as good as they say? Is this just going to be a filler job for them and they will leave shortly after the employer has invested in training them.
Also, those in their 40's and 50's have kids and grandkids that soak up some of their time. Many are not as single minded in their pursuit of career as when they were 22. And lastly, health problems become more of a factor when you approach 50. Companies, especially small firms, are very concerned about health insurance costs. Add a few older employees to your health insurance policy, especially if they have any chronic problems, and it may make the price of insurance so high that the firm is no longer able to offer it to their employees.
Sorry, but those are the facts of life that those over 50 face. So be aware of your skills and not just your technical skills. You may need to go into a new field. Teachers are in dire need. Charitable organizations may need help. Or you may just need to get a couple of Wal-Mart jobs. Or you could do what I did more than ten years ago and go into business for yourself.