The unemployment rate for workers over 55 in 1992 was=20 4.8 percent, but that rate shrunk to 2.6 percent in 2000,=20 according to the U.S. Department of Labor. However, as the=20 economy begins to slow down, employers may not hire older workers because they are unsure of their abilities and willingness to=20 adapt to a changing environment. The AARP believes that age=20 discrimination could become a strategy for employers in the=20 declining economy. However, labor experts like Bill Purdue=20 believe that employers will chose older adults for positions=20 because they are reliable, experienced and loyal.