With the Older American’s Month drawing to close, seniors are encouraged to look at aging as an opportunity to blossom; setting new goals and remaining engaged members of their communities. And as demographics shift and older adults make up a growing share of the population, retiring at age 65 is quickly becoming a thing of the past. In fact, nearly two in three U.S. adult workers polled in 2017 said they believe they will continue to work, at least part-time, past retirement age.
By 2020, it is estimated that workers over 55 will make up 25 per cent of the United States labor force, a significant jump from 13 per cent in 2000. Many older adults want to continue working for financial reasons but work also provides a valuable way for seniors to stay connected and feel useful and relevant. With an increasingly longer lifespan to enjoy, seniors are not content to sit out the next 20 years or more.
Working part-time or with flexible hours gives seniors time to enjoy life and the means to fund life-long retirement dreams. Non-profit organizations are often a good fit for older workers who have a lot to offer and are at point in their lives where making a positive impact on the world may be more important than money alone.
There are many resources today for older workers to learn new skills, develop their passions and find a fulfilling second-act career. To learn more about opportunities in your community visit encore.org .
Low income, unemployed seniors may qualify for work-based job training in non-profit and public facilities through the Senior Community Service Employment Program as part of the United States Department of Labor. To find an Older Worker Program near you, visit the Service Locator online by following this link. In Canada, the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (TIOW) helps older adults return to work through assistance with resume writing, counseling, skills upgrading and work experience. Visit the Government of Canada website here to learn more.
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