I don't think anyone should be forc

I don't think anyone should be forced out of a job merely because of age. People are healthier and live longer and can continue to be productive well past their 50's if they choose to do so. The problem is companies want to get rid of older employees to reduce salaries/wages (as younger workers are paid less) and to reduce benefits being paid (402k's, health benefits etc). It is discriminatory and illegal for a company to do so in the US. Further, most companies no longer provide a pension or health benefits once an employee retires. Many people cannot afford to not work. Social security in the US does not provide enough and that system is currently underfunded. Bear in mind, social security does not begin until 62 years of age at the earliest and at a reduced amount. There also is the issue of knowledge and experience which is lost if older employees are replaced with younger employees.