Working Longer Could Enhance Health and Social Connections

The trend of working beyond traditional retirement age may offer more than financial benefits; it could significantly enhance health and social connections. As exemplified by the late Jane Goodall, who remained active into her 90s, the narrative surrounding work and aging is evolving. Goodall’s legacy of purpose and engagement has sparked discussions about the value of prolonged careers, especially as the average life expectancy increases.

While many Americans still believe that retirement should occur by the mid-60s, data indicates a shift in perspective may be beneficial. According to research by the Longevity Project, which will be released later this month alongside Corebridge Financial, a significant 73% of adults expressed concerns about the prospect of working an additional ten years to support a longer life. The anxiety is notably pronounced among younger generations, with 81% of Generation Z respondents opposing the idea of extending their working years.

The data reveals a stark contrast between societal norms and the potential benefits of extended work life. A study involving approximately 83,000 older adults over 15 years found that those who continued working past the traditional retirement age of 65 were up to three times more likely to report good health. Furthermore, research indicates that for healthy retirees, each additional year before retirement correlates with an 11% lower risk of all-cause mortality.

Despite these findings, many Americans remain hesitant to embrace the idea of working longer, often associating it with the necessity to sustain retirement funding rather than viewing it as a means to enhance quality of life. For example, in Germany, a panel has suggested that workers may need to stay employed for an additional eight years to support public retirement plans. However, such arguments often fail to resonate with the public, as the notion of working solely to benefit future generations does not inspire enthusiasm.

In contrast, some countries, such as Japan and Korea, have begun to view work as a remedy for loneliness and social isolation, particularly in the latter stages of life. Japanese companies have made notable strides in accommodating older workers by offering flexible and rewarding employment opportunities. This cultural shift highlights the potential for work to foster social connections and improve overall well-being as people age.

Despite the advantages, it is essential to recognize that extended work is not universally applicable. In Japan, only about half of individuals aged 65 to 69 are still employed, indicating that while work can be beneficial, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Additionally, some occupations may be physically demanding, making continued work challenging for certain individuals.

The reality of retirement often differs for blue-collar workers, who may not experience the idyllic retirement portrayed in advertisements. For many, retirement can bring financial insecurity and loneliness, particularly for those without strong social networks. Statistics reveal that only 17% of individuals without a college education report having six or more close friends, while 24% of those with a high school education or less indicate they have no close friends at all. This represents a sharp increase from the 1990 figures and highlights the growing isolation faced by lower-income individuals.

The current crisis of loneliness further complicates the challenges associated with aging. As people live longer, fostering connections and maintaining an active lifestyle becomes increasingly vital for promoting healthy longevity.

The conversation around work and aging needs to evolve, encouraging a cultural understanding that values the contributions of older workers. Kenneth Stern, founder of the Longevity Project and author of the book “Healthy to 100: How Strong Social Ties Lead to Long Lives,” advocates for greater support for older employees. As society grapples with an aging population, it is essential to recognize the multifaceted role that work can play in not only enhancing financial stability but also in fostering meaningful social interactions and promoting overall health.