Many are waiting for it impatiently while others dread it. Retirement can be synonymous with freedom or bring on anxiety. Eight factors are said to influence retirement perceptions, expectations and planning: gender, socioeconomic situation, ethnocultural characteristics, family situation, health status, work or profession, preparation and sense of control and attitudes towards aging in the workplace.
Many older adults who are still in the workforce are faced with stereotypes, prejudices and discrimination because of their age, also known as ageism. These negative work environments can have an impact on older adults’ health and well-being and may lead to them retiring earlier than they planned. Employers who offer personal and career development opportunities in an equitable manner to all employees, and who put in place accommodations to address aging-related issues and promote an inclusive, non-discriminatory work environment, can push back retirement age among their employees, while also fostering experience sharing and reducing labour costs.
If you’re thinking of transitioning to retirement, or are already retired, you may want to think about what meaningful roles you could play in your new life as a retiree. Many older adults go back to school or enrol in online courses to learn something new. We have compiled the latest research on retirement, ageism in the workplace and life after retirement to help you.
