How to re-enter the workforce after 25 years on SSDI?

Hi everyone,

How are you all today?

I had a member reach out to me with an important and challenging question that I thought would benefit from the collective wisdom of this community.

She is an elderly, disabled woman who has been on SSDI for 25 years following an accident that significantly impacted her ability to work consistently. Despite her extensive 20+ years of experience in her field, her health issues have prevented her from maintaining part-time or full-time hours. Now, she is eager to re-enter the workforce.

Although the law prohibits employers from discriminating in their hiring practices, she wonders how she can effectively find employment in her situation and who might give her a chance to prove herself. She is looking for practical advice and suggestions on:

1. How to market her skills and experience effectively despite her long absence from the workforce.
2. What types of jobs or industries might be more accommodating to someone with her background.
3. Strategies for addressing potential concerns from employers about her health and work history.
4. Resources and programs that could support her in this transition.

Any insights, personal experiences, or resources you can share would be greatly appreciated. Let's help her find a path back into the workforce and give her the support she needs to succeed.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Best,

Somya from the Carenity team 🌼