To wonder how much longer I can do my job?

[Wrenna]

I am almost 58 work part time at a non profit job I love. It involves standing/walking without a sit down break for 4 hours, on a concrete floor. I’m in the US; since I’m part time I ‘can’ take a break but then I’d have to stay longer and traffic gets bad so I’m eager to leave on time. Some days I’m also lifting/moving heavy items and every day I’m doing stairs multiple times a day.

Anyway in the near future I think my work hours will be increased. I currently work three half days, so 12 hours. I am in reasonably good health but more than 4 hours on my feet in these conditions is hard. I believe my hours might be increased to a minimum of 15 or 20 hours. Aibu to wonder how much longer I can do my job especially if these hours are increased? On one hand I feel like I’m being wimpy but then again I’m almost 58, have worked at least part time most of my adult life.
After these hours on my feet when I get home after a 30 minute commute I’ve seized up and am so stiff. But the other part of me is like, get a grip! You only work 12 hours a week!

Sorry should mention I don’t ‘need’ to work, but mentally it’s been great for me!

Is there anything you can do to improve your fitness op? In addition are you wearing the correct footwear?

Would you consider looking for a different job that is accessible to your needs? Sounds like you get a lot out of paid work so should try to continue working in some kind of capacity. What about an office job?

Honestly I’m so tired when I get home I collapse! I used to walk early for exercise but the area is kind of dodgy so I’ve given that up. I do wear nice cushiony trainers that have been a godsend - I wore cute shoes last year and that was a huge mistake!

You are only 58. Deal with the aches by investing in the best shoes, yoga or physio. Don’t stop doing something you love and that sounds like it’s making you fitter than you would be otherwise.

I’m afraid they might ask me to work at the office…it’s a hostile work environment. I have a great boss and co workers where I’m at, plus it’s no evenings weekends or holidays which is super hard to find in part time work. It’s a lot of work but a really fun job!

Sketchers are awesome if your on your feet. Support leggings or tights can be good too

Could you strat a bit earlier and then build in a short sit down break half way through your shift. That way you could still leave when you do and avoid the traffic.

Have you checked that you aren't anemic?

Look for another job?

Instead of paid work, what about a voluntary job where you can sit more often?

This scares me a bit. Im a teacher and our retirement age has moved from 60 to 68. 10 years more describing how you feel at 58 is a big worry.

I'd say it's your fitness, not your age.
58 isnt old, and it is perfectly normal to be able to lift and stay on your feet for half a day.
But, can you find a different job that is less physical if that would suit you better?

I would start applying for a less physical job within the nonprofit you work for. It’s good planning for the future.

Thanks everyone. I am healthy bit not really fit. I think I need to exercise and learn how to lift without getting hurt. And get Sketchers too. Thank you again.

'How to lift without getting hurt'

Do you have access to manual handling training and/or equipment at work?

I think that if you wish to stay in thr job then focusing on your fitness will enable you. There’s no reason at 58 you can’t do what you’re doing if healthy. It’s not about age it’s really more about being fit enough to do the job.

Are you sure you are healthy? Could you have Osteo or Rheumatoid arthritis? I think you need to make an appointment with your Doctor. 4 hours on your feet should not cause you such pain.
Also do you have an occupational health dept at work who you could ask for a work place assessment?

I don't think it's normal to feel that way at 58. I used to work retail in a job with lots of manual handling on concrete floors and we had full-timers in their sixties (and beyond in some cases) who managed just fine.

What kind of footwear do you have on and what exercise are you doing outside of work? What about diet?

It's worrying that you're coming home exhausted after four hours. Many people work full-time for another 10+ years after your age!

Could you use a chair on the shop floor for everyone’s benefit? (Or as a reasonable adjustment if you are having particularly issues)

I was in a very similar position, I was in so much pain that I felt limited in what I could do. But I have started lifting weights and doing body weight conditioning and the change it's made to my body is incredible. I don't lift massively heavy weights, just enough to strengthen my muscles and I'm hoping it will benefit my bones as I get older.
I still have bad days, but I recover quicker and I have so much more energy. I would definitely recommend doing something similar, as well as being very careful with your footwear choices.
I hope you don't have to give up the job you love.

Another one who thinks your fitness is the issue. 58 is not old.
Look into Pilates/yoga and also weight training - you need to build some muscle to support your joints.
Are you a healthy weight?