In a recent episode of The UnWorking Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Kate Milne, founder of Cardia Health Consulting, for an insightful discussion on the intersection of aging, women’s health, and the workplace. Join us as we delve into Kate’s transformative journey, insights, and her vision for age-friendly workplaces.

A Journey of Health Promotion: Kate’s journey began in vocational rehab, where she worked with individuals managing illness and collaborated with employers to facilitate their return to work. With a background in exercise physiology, Kate expanded her focus beyond physical rehabilitation to encompass holistic health promotion, particularly in healthy aging for older adults.

Reflecting on her experiences, Kate shares, “My work started in vocational rehab about 25 years ago. I was lucky to work in a multidisciplinary team, focusing on cognitive behavioral models and multiple dimensions of health.”

Age-Friendly Workplaces: Discussing the gender gap and ageism in the workplace, Kate highlights the challenges faced by older women, emphasizing the need for age-friendly environments. She explores the impact of menopause on women’s careers and the importance of creating supportive workplaces that prioritize psychological safety.

“The gender gap is real, especially for older women facing gendered ageism in the workplace. It’s crucial to address menopause-related issues and promote inclusivity,” says Kate.

Supporting the Aging Workforce: Kate shares practical advice for organizations seeking to maximize their workforce’s potential and cater to the needs of aging employees. From flexible work arrangements to tailored well-being programs, she emphasizes the importance of holistic support for employees across the lifespan.

“Employers can leverage the valuable contributions of their aging workforce by implementing age-friendly practices and supporting employees’ well-being,” suggests Kate.

Looking Towards the Future: As we navigate the future of work, Kate envisions age-friendly workplaces that prioritize employee well-being and productivity. She advocates for a continuum of support, from entry into the workforce to retirement, fostering inclusivity and empowering employees to thrive at every stage of their careers.

“In the future, I hope to see workplaces that value employees across the lifespan, with age-friendly practices and holistic support programs,” shares Kate.