Contributing factors to post-retirement employment and life satisfaction
Date
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
YU Faculty Profile
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the contributing factors to post-retirement employment and examine the relationship between post-retirement employment and retirement satisfaction from a social work perspective. This study is secondary-data quantitative research utilizing data from the RAND HRS Longitudinal File 2020. The sample was restricted to individuals born in 1948 and 1949, comprising 1561 respondents. The study tracked the changes in retirement trajectories and self-reported well-being over time, providing insights into the dynamics of various factors shaping retirement plans, decisions, and satisfaction. The results revealed several significant findings. Being African American or Hispanic was associated with a lower likelihood of intending to work beyond age 65 but a higher likelihood of post-retirement employment. Higher total household wealth was associated with a reduced intention to work past age 65, yet a greater likelihood of remaining in the labor market. The health and employment status of a spouse significantly influenced older adults' work intentions, retirement decisions, and overall satisfaction. Additionally, there were notable reciprocal correlations between respondents’ plans to work and their retirement decisions. The findings offer valuable insights for gerontological social work practice by highlighting the job-related needs of older clients. They emphasize the importance of educating employers about the benefits of hiring older workers and advocating for age-friendly policies, such as flexible work arrangements and phased retirement options. These insights lay the groundwork for enhancing future practitioners’ readiness to promote equal employment opportunities for older adults and to support their well-being throughout retirement