Part-Time Work Good for Seniors’ Health

Q. I am a healthy 68-year-old man who wants to keep working, at least part-time. My family thinks I’m crazy. Am I?

Those seniors who work temporary or part-time jobs have fewer major diseases and will enjoy better day-to-day function than their contemporaries who choose to stop working altogether, according to a new national study.

The study’s authors refer to this transition between career and complete retirement as “bridge employment,” which can be a part-time job, self-employment or a temporary job. The findings are reported in the October issue of the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, published by the American Psychological Association.

“Given the economic recession, we will probably see more people considering post-retirement employment,” said co-author Mo Wang, Ph.D., of the University of Maryland. “These findings highlight bridge employment’s potential benefits.”

Over the course of the study, the researchers considered only physician-diagnosed health problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, lung disease, heart disease, stroke and psychiatric problems. They controlled not only for baseline physical and mental health but also for age, sex, education level and total financial wealth. The results showed the retirees who continued to work in a bridge job experienced fewer major diseases and fewer functional limitations than those who fully retired.

“Choosing a suitable type of bridge employment will help retirees transition better into full retirement and in good physical and mental health,” said co-author Kenneth Shultz, Ph.D., adding that employers who are concerned about a labor shortage due to numerous Baby Boomers retiring might consider bridge employment options for their retirees.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor projections, the 55+ population will account for nearly 93 percent of the net increase in the labor force between 2006 and 2016.

One popular part-time job option for older adults is senior caregiving. Seniors make great caregiver companions for other older adults who need a little extra help around the house or just a friend with whom to spend time and enjoy activities. For more information, contact Home Instead Senior Care.