Older Americans often compelled to keep working — and face criticism for doing so
Summary
Many older Americans are working longer than before, sometimes by choice and sometimes because they need to. While society encourages older people to stay active, some face criticism for not retiring and stepping aside.Key Facts
- About 1 in 4 U.S. adults over 50 expect to never retire.
- The average retirement age was 57 in 1991 but now more adults age 65 and older are working.
- The number of employed Americans 65 and older grew by over 33% from 2015 to 2024.
- Reasons older adults work longer include wanting to stay active, rising living costs, health insurance, care duties, and low retirement savings.
- Older adults are encouraged to stay productive and engaged, but some face criticism for staying in leadership or influential roles.
- Social Security and pensions historically supported more predictable retirements, but economic and demographic changes have altered this.
- Older generations hold much political and economic power, which can frustrate younger Americans’ opportunities.
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