STREAM Newsletter 12

As the year comes to an end, we thought it would be fitting for this newsletter to highlight STREAM-research focusing on the end of the working life. Or rather, on working beyond the retirement age.

In many countries, governments are implementing policies to prolong the working life. These policies are aimed at reducing the increasing pressure on social security systems caused by aging populations. As a result, the average retirement age in many countries is increasing. In addition, the number of persons working beyond the retirement age is increasing as well.

Several studies into motives and determinants of working beyond the retirement age have been conducted recently. In the previous newsletter we mentioned a study by Scharn et al, which concluded that health, work characteristics, and social environment predict working beyond retirement, but register-based socioeconomic and demographic characteristics do not. In this newsletter we will present results of studies by De Wind et al and Sewdas et al on determinants and motives for working beyond the retirement age. These studies find that financial reasons and a desire to maintain a daily routine motivate people to work beyond the retirement age. Good health and flexible work arrangements seem to be preconditions. Interestingly, the results of Sewdas et al also revealed an additional theme in people’s motives to continue working — purpose in life. An important topic as we look forward to a new year.

To learn more about working beyond the retirement age we suggest to keep reading this newsletter!
We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a
happy and healthy 2018!

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