Reasons more people are working past 75
For many, staying in the workforce or returning to it later in life is no longer an anomaly but a reality. The reasons for this trend are complex, stemming from a mix of financial pressures, personal aspirations, and societal shifts.
- Financial necessity: For a significant number of older adults, continued employment is essential for financial stability. Insufficient retirement savings, rising costs of living, and the shrinking availability of traditional pension plans mean many cannot afford to stop working. Earning an income can supplement retirement savings, cover daily expenses, or help fund long-term goals like travel.
- Desire for purpose and fulfillment: Work often provides a sense of purpose, identity, and routine that some retirees miss. For some, the traditional vision of retirement filled with leisure doesn't align with their desire to remain productive and engaged. Many find new fulfillment in part-time or flexible roles that align with lifelong passions or offer fresh challenges.
- Social engagement: Work is a major source of social interaction. Staying in the workforce can combat loneliness and social isolation, a common issue for some retirees. Coworker camaraderie and daily interaction provide important social connections and a sense of community.
- Improved health and longevity: Modern medicine and healthier lifestyles mean many people are in good health well into their 70s. Studies even suggest that continuing to work can be beneficial for health, potentially delaying cognitive decline and reducing mortality risk. For those with less physically demanding jobs, working longer is a more viable option than for previous generations.
The shifting landscape of work for older adults
As the workforce continues to age, employers and workers are adapting to new realities. This includes a move toward more flexible work arrangements and a greater focus on skills rather than age.
Comparison: Traditional retirement vs. working past 75
| Feature | Traditional Retirement (e.g., 1980s) | Working Past 75 (Modern Context) |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Status | Often dependent on traditional pensions and personal savings. | Often supplements retirement income due to inadequate savings and inflation. |
| Reason to Work | Ended career around 65. Work was often physically demanding and less flexible. | Extended careers or new roles chosen for income, purpose, or health. |
| Job Flexibility | Limited options. Retirement was often a hard stop. | Increasing access to part-time, remote, or freelance "bridge jobs". |
| Technology Adaptation | Limited exposure to workplace tech changes post-retirement. | Requires continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies, sometimes a challenge. |
| Health Considerations | Health declines were a primary driver for retirement. | Working longer is linked to better health and longevity in some studies. |
| Workplace Ageism | Less prevalent due to earlier retirement norms. | Remains a significant challenge that older workers must navigate. |
Challenges and opportunities for the aging workforce
Despite the clear benefits, older workers face specific challenges that must be addressed. However, they also offer unique advantages to employers.
Challenges for older workers
- Age discrimination: Despite legal protections like the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), ageism remains a significant barrier for older workers in hiring, promotion, and training. Older job seekers may receive fewer callbacks, and discrimination is difficult to prove.
- Technological adaptation: Some employers and older workers themselves may assume they are less proficient with new technologies, though research indicates this is often a myth. Access to updated training and skill development is crucial.
- Health and physical demands: While many jobs are less physically strenuous than in the past, older workers in manual labor roles face a higher risk of serious injury and longer recovery times. Employers must be mindful of accommodations and ergonomic needs.
- Work-life balance: Older workers may face the added responsibilities of caregiving for spouses or parents. Balancing work and personal needs becomes increasingly important.
Opportunities and advantages for employers
- Experience and wisdom: Older employees bring a wealth of institutional knowledge, problem-solving skills, and industry wisdom that can be invaluable for training and mentoring younger staff.
- Reliability and dependability: Many studies show older workers are highly reliable, dependable, and bring a strong work ethic. They are also less likely to misuse company time or resources.
- Skill diversity: The modern aging workforce often includes highly educated professionals with diverse skill sets and extensive networks. This provides a talent pool for complex and specialized roles.
Conclusion
For those wondering, "Can a 75 year old still work?", the data and personal accounts confirm that it is not only possible but increasingly common. The motivation for working past 75 is a diverse mix of financial necessity, personal enrichment, and improved longevity. While challenges like ageism persist, the advantages older workers bring in terms of experience, reliability, and mentorship offer clear benefits to the modern workplace. As the workforce continues to evolve, creating flexible and inclusive environments will be key to supporting this growing demographic of engaged and productive seniors. The conversation is shifting from whether a 75-year-old can work to how workplaces can best support them in continuing to do so meaningfully.
Jobs that are a good fit for older workers
- Consulting: Leveraging decades of experience to advise companies on strategy, management, or technology.
- Tutoring/Teaching: Sharing knowledge and expertise in educational settings, from private tutoring to substitute teaching.
- Part-time Retail or Customer Service: Roles that offer social interaction and are often available part-time, providing a steady income stream.
- Freelance Writing or Editing: Utilizing strong communication skills from home or a remote setting.
- Caregiving: Providing essential non-medical support to other seniors, often with flexible hours.
- Bookkeeping or Administrative Assistant: Roles that leverage organizational skills and can be adapted to flexible or part-time schedules.
Authoritative Source
The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects individuals 40 and older from employment discrimination based on age. This federal law ensures older workers have legal recourse against ageism, highlighting the official recognition of their right to work.
