Job Satisfaction after the Covid-19 Pandemic – Did Work Disruptions Matter?

Agnieszka Chlon-Dominczak , Warsaw School o Economics
Dorota Holzer-Zelazewska, SGH - Warsaw School of Economics
Magdalena Kocejko, SGH Warsaw School of Economics

Population ageing and workforce contraction highlight the importance of extending working lives, particularly among older workers. Job satisfaction is a key determinant of continued employment, yet its post-pandemic dynamics remain underexplored. Using Wave 9 of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (2021–2022), this study examines job satisfaction among workers aged 50+. Factor and cluster analyses identify four groups: physically tired (26.8%), unsatisfied (27.0%), discouraged (25.2%), and satisfied (20.9%). Multinomial logistic regression assesses the role of pandemic-related work disruptions and individual characteristics. Results show limited impact of COVID-19 disruptions on satisfaction, though working from home reduced physical strain. Higher education and perceived workplace safety strongly predict satisfaction, while older age increases the likelihood of discouragement. Country-level variation is substantial, explaining differences in employment rates among older workers. Findings underscore the need to improve job quality and recognition to support longer working lives in ageing societies.

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 Presented in Session P7. Education, Labor Market, and Economic Issues