A global study from consulting firm Bain & Company found that 150 million jobs will shift to workers over the age of 55 by 2030. That figure is nearly equal to the entire working population of the US. In the Group of Seven (G7) countries, Bain predicts these experienced workers will comprise a quarter of the workforce by the end of the decade—nearly 10 percentage points higher than in 2011.

The retirement age is ticking up, as well, according to the study. Over the last two decades, fewer young people are entering the workforce, and a long-term trend toward earlier retirement is slowly going into reverse. Forty-one percent of American workers now expect to work beyond age 65. Thirty years ago, it was 12%.

The UK increased its retirement age from 60 for women and 65 for men by pushing both up to 66, with a plan to move up further over time. In Japan, the government struggled to push the official retirement age from 60 to 61, leaving many firms to solve the problem by releasing workers at 60 and rehiring them on new contracts, often at reduced pay rates.

"People work longer into their lives, yet we've found it rare to see organizations put programs in place to fully integrate older workers into their talent system," said James Root, co-chair of Bain & Company's think tank.

For the firm's ongoing research into worker motivation, 40,000 workers across 19 countries were surveyed about what motivates them to go to work and what helps them thrive when they get there. The research shows that as workers age, their priorities evolve. The average worker over the age of 60 is most focused on doing interesting work in a job where they have autonomy and flexibility.

Many are focused on mastering their craft, while others feel rewarded by seeing their actions make a positive social impact.

The share of part-time and self-employed workers increases as they approach retirement. But this doesn't translate to a lack of commitment. Bain's research shows that older workers feel more loyal to their companies and are more satisfied in work and life. However, few firms are recognizing these changing needs of experienced workers, or providing training so they can move ahead.

To access the report, “Better with Age: The Rising Importance of Older Workers,” click here