Research Symposium

BIO

My name is Daisy Perez and I'm a sophomore from West Palm Beach, FL. I'm currently majoring in Biological Sciences on the pre-med track, driven by a deep passion for improving healthcare and making a difference in the lives of others. I am an ambitious and hardworking student who values both academic excellence and personal growth.

As part of the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP), I am working on a project focused on on the intersectionality between aging, disabilities, and workplace accommodations. This experience has allowed me to apply my curiosity and commitment to healthcare in a meaningful way, exploring how research can help solve real-world problems. UROP has also provided me with the chance to collaborate with dedicated mentors and fellow students, fostering a community of intellectual curiosity and support.

In addition to my academic and research pursuits, I am passionate about using my skills to make a difference in healthcare. I strive to develop a deeper understanding of the challenges patients face and am committed to using my experiences to improve access to quality care. My journey as a pre-med student is fueled by my desire to contribute to the healthcare field and support the well-being of others.

Fostering Workplace Supports and Success Among Older Workers: A Scoping Review

Abstract

The aging demographic in the workforce continues to grow and holds significant implications at individual, familial, and societal levels. Legal frameworks such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 have been put in place to call for advocacy in the workplace. Yet, barriers persist for those with disabilities, especially the aged. This study addresses critical issues such as workplace participation to foster an inclusive workplace for older workers. A literature review was performed after selecting articles surrounding the scope of accommodations for older workers in the workplace. Using the FSU Library database and Zotero to find and store/sort relevant articles and remove any duplicates, we were able to compile a list of pertinent articles, which we further narrowed down using our selection criteria: involving working participants aged 50 and older, accommodation request, usage and provision, and a published empirical study from January 1, 1990 to December 1, 2023. Aging workers may receive accommodations, including flexible schedules, assistive programs, and longer absences from work. Challenges, including misconceptions and limited awareness about disabilities, were identified as barriers for workers seeking accommodations. Our results were consistent with that of previous research, and intersectionality frameworks show how factors such as age, race, and gender can shape one’s experience, allowing us to explore lived experiences further. However, relying on literature limits the study’s scope, as gaps in research and potential biases in published studies may affect our findings.

Keywords: Disability, Accommodations, Aging, Workplace