What does the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) focus on?

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) specifically focuses on protecting individuals aged 40 years and older from discrimination in employment based on their age. This law aims to prevent discrimination in hiring, promotion, discharge, compensation, and other terms and conditions of employment due to an employee's age. The ADEA recognizes that older workers may face barriers in the workforce solely based on stereotypes or assumptions about their capabilities as they age, and it seeks to eliminate these biases.

This focus on individuals aged 40 and over reinforces the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace that values the experiences and contributions of older employees. By specifically targeting age discrimination against this demographic, the ADEA helps ensure that they are afforded equal opportunities in the professional sphere, which is crucial for maintaining a diverse and effective workforce.