Tech Training Can Increase Burnout Among Older Workers: Key Insights from Canadian Research

Human resources professionals implementing new technology in the workplace need to rethink their approach to training. A recent dissertation from Memorial University of Newfoundland highlights a troubling connection: tech training is often intensifying burnout among older employees.

The study, titled "Technological Change and an Aging Workforce: Investigating the Career Experiences of Older Workers," was conducted by Judah I. Adeniyi and supervised by Dr. Travor Brown. Completed in October 2025, the research sheds light on the intersection of age, technology, and employee wellbeing.

Link Between Burnout and Retirement Intentions

In the second phase of the study, Adeniyi surveyed 361 workers aged 55 to 80, predominantly from Canada and the United States. Interestingly, while there was no direct correlation between perceived technological change and burnout, the findings revealed that burnout adversely affected older workers' perceived work ability. This decline in perceived ability subsequently influenced their retirement intentions, suggesting a cycle where those who feel less capable are more likely to contemplate leaving the workforce.

As indicated by a growing trend, many older workers are postponing retirement, with a report underscoring the implications of this shift. Adeniyi pointed out that when older employees perceive a decline in their work ability, it often leads them towards premature retirement, exacerbating labor shortages and depriving organizations of crucial expertise necessary for success.

Training as a Double-Edged Sword

Research findings revealed a paradoxical outcome when examining potential buffers against burnout. Of the various strategies tested, only technological training stood out, but not for the right reasons. Adeniyi noted that tech training significantly heightened, rather than mitigated, the negative effects of burnout on perceived work ability.

He stated, "Contrary to expectations, the results revealed that technological training exacerbated, rather than buffered, the negative relationship between burnout and perceived work ability." This suggests that inadequate training can impose additional cognitive and emotional burdens on older workers, particularly when the training is complex or misaligned with their specific needs.

Considerations for Effective Training

To address these challenges, Adeniyi advocates for a more customized approach to training rather than a blanket solution. He emphasizes the importance of engaging older workers in the design of training modules, advocating for self-paced learning options, and fostering a supportive learning environment.

Here are several best practices regarding tech training for older workers derived from various sources:

Taking these considerations into account can help organizations implement more effective training strategies that support the wellbeing of older employees while simultaneously enhancing overall productivity.