5th ISA Forum of Sociology (6-11 July 2025)

One of the most pressing issues in the context of sustainable development is how to sustain societies amid aging and even shrinking populations. In certain developed countries, such as Japan, population decline has already begun owing to decreasing birth rates. Additionally, social security systems have declined in many countries amidst the welfare state crisis. Individualization of families is also an inevitable trend in modern society. Consequently, older adults are increasingly expected to remain in the workforce. However, labor force participation rates and the willingness of older adults to work vary significantly across developed nations. This issue presents a unique agenda that is distinct from the labor participation of women and the introduction of foreign workers.

Given this context, this session (regular session) aims to gather papers from various countries that analyze the current situation and challenges faced by older workers from a sociological perspective. The papers are expected to address some of the following topics:

- Long-term changes in the population structure, labor market participation, and retirement process of older adults.
- Changes in social security systems and family structures.
- Characteristics of the labor market for older workers, including industry, occupation, and employment status.
- Policies, laws, social and corporate institutions, and social and cultural norms that influence older adults’ labor participation.
- Motivations and factors for older adults to work, and the impact of employment on their health and well-being.
- The relationship between paid work, family care and household duties, and community activities.