Not Ready to Retire? Jobs to Consider Over 65

The concept of “Freedom 55” is being reinvented by older adults who are increasingly continuing to work long past 50, 60 or even 65.  According to the Pew Research Center, nearly one in five Americans over the age of 65 continue to work.

Working longer goes hand in hand with living longer and healthier lives, which can require creative financing and for many, the need for continued access to healthcare benefits.   But working in older age also provides important social contact and can add a sense of meaningful purpose to life.   

How older workers approach employment may be quite different than when they were entering the workforce in their 20s or 30s.  New priorities such as flexibility of hours or a stress-free environment may carry more weight as older adults craft a new lifestyle in their second act.   When thinking about the kind of job that would offer the most gratification, senior workers will likely consider their financial goals, such as paying off debt, as well what career would best fit their transition into a new stage of life.  Perhaps a hobby, such as carpentry, dog training or photography could lead to new job opportunities.

Many older adults become consultants within their field, sharing expertise while keeping themselves relevant and involved. And a growing number of employers offer senior workers greater flexibility through options such as working from home, reduced hours or job sharing.    

Retirement Job Ideas

• Look for retail jobs that offers part-time benefits such as Starbucks, Home Depot or Whole Foods.
• Use the internet to earn, sell hand-made items on etsy.com 
• Coach or referee at local schools or for amateur leagues
• Look into tour guide gigs for historical monuments or museums
• Home Health Aids are one of the fastest growing careers –  think seniors caring for seniors
• Bartender – check for local or online courses
• Nonprofit work – volunteering can often lead to a encore career

Source:  Huffington Post

For more job hunting resources visit the AARP Foundation by following this link.