According to a recent survey by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, more than one million mature-age Aussies are likely to continue working into older age, with around 650,000 of these planning never to retire. While some people are forced to work for financial reasons, many are staying at work because it also provides mental stimulation, social contact, self-esteem and a sense of purpose.
Some of the reasons given by older people about changing their views on retirement are that they are generally staying healthier and living longer, so there’s more time to keep working, if you want to. I talked to numerous people who are still working when writing my book, Extending your use-by date, and from those discussions, I distilled the following ten points about how to stay employed into older age:
1. Prepare in advance
Consider in advance your options for continuing to work, and prepare for the one you favour, whether it is full-time, part-time or casual, or something entirely different, perhaps running your own business.
2. Accept there will be physiological and cognitive changes as you grow older, but reject the myths about ageing.
There is good evidence that most people function quite successfully in both mind and body into older age, and that dementia is not inevitable. Resist regarding yourself as ‘old’ too soon, and focus on your capabilities.
3. Keep learning, and don’t ignore technology.
Older people need to be willing to keep learning in order to maintain pace with changes in modern workplaces, just as younger workers do. This includes keeping up with technological developments. Contrary to the stereotype, older people can continue to learn, as long as they have time, motivation and support.
4. If you want to do something new, build on your strengths.
The most successful transitions to what are sometimes called ‘encore’ careers are built on the skills and knowledge that has already been amassed. Also, you will need to research and complete all the necessary training before you make the leap.
5. Stay connected to professional and social networks.
New jobs are often found through word of mouth, so it pays to stay connected to people who may be able to offer you employment, or put you in touch with others who can. Also look for flexible options in your current workplace as employers prefer to give jobs to people they already know if they believe they are capable of the role.
6. Be realistic about your job prospects.
If you want to keep working into older age, you may come across discrimination and have to settle for different kinds of work, possibly with lower status and less pay. As with any change of employment be prepared that it may not work out exactly as you envisaged.
7. Consider volunteering.
Volunteering can potentially offer the same benefits as continuing work, with more flexibility, but without the income boost of course. It also provides good work experience for those seeking paid employment, and there are lots of opportunities, including some international volunteer posts.
8. Be proactive in looking after your physical and mental health.
Continuing to work is not only about utilising your skills and knowledge, it’s also about keeping yourself physically and mentally sharp. On the other hand, working part-time or at a lower level as you grow older may be one way of prolonging your working life.
9. Be open-minded and willing to have a go.
Be on the lookout for options inside and outside your workplace, and say ‘yes’ to all suitable opportunities. Be realistic in your approach, but don’t be constrained by what you’ve already done.
10. Believe in yourself as an older worker but recognise your limitations.
Self-confidence is important as you age and you should resist other people telling you that you’ve reached your use-by date. At the same time, longevity of employment is not a guarantee of ongoing work, recognise if the time has come to retire with dignity.
The message is simple: you don’t need to retire just because you have hit some magical age. For most of us, life is long, and continuing to use your valuable skills and abilities into your later years can not only earn you money but might just help keep you young too.
Darryl is the author of Extending your use-by date: Why retirement age is only a number is available as an e-book from the publisher, www.xoum.com.au, and from major etailers, including Amazon.com and the Apple iStore.
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