AUGUSTA — An economist says Maine needs to find ways to capitalize on the growing number of older adults who are staying in the workforce longer than ever.

John Dorrer, who specializes in workforce development, told a panel of lawmakers, education and business leaders Tuesday that there’s been a dramatic increase in the number of those age 55 and older in the labor market.

He says the degree to which Maine’s economy benefits from this population depends on policies and steps it takes to ensure older individuals seeking work have the skills they need.

The panel is seeking to come up with concrete policy ideas for addressing Maine’s aging challenges.

Maine has the nation’s highest fraction of baby boomers in the country at more than 29 percent, according to recent census data.