Best Jobs for Retirees

Dr. Daniel Crosby, Ph.D., President, IncBlot Behavioral Finance

If the thought of complete retirement leaves you restless, you’re not alone. More retirees are working now than ever before. As of the Second Quarter 2013, 25.0% of adults aged 62+ participated in the labor force, an increase from 17.2% in 2000.

While some retirees use that money as discretionary income, others are concerned about their ability to afford retirement over the long run. They work to cover health care costs, to make up for lack of savings or to recoup losses in retirement accounts. Yet, many retirees simply work for social interaction and to remain engaged in the world around them. While retirement may close the door on your traditional career, these three job categories open far more opportunities in your golden years.

Jobs with Variable Hours

Retirees schedule their days as they please. Thus, jobs that require non-traditional hours or fast response times are a great fit for those with few structured demands on their time. Many retired nurses adopt new roles as home health care providers, often with their choice of days and shifts. Non-medical professionals can also find roles assisting clients with daily living activities including meal preparation, cleanliness, errands and more.

Jobs That Provide Housing

Chances are your retirement plan addresses cost of living, housing…and even some travel plans. Many retirees are finding jobs that combine all three! Seasonal and tourism-based jobs with national parks, resorts and leisure destinations offer unique opportunities to travel and to become immersed in the operations of the tourism industry. Roles vary from retail to food service, customer service, maintenance and more. Compensation may be a combination of hourly pay and/or accommodations. While the lodging may be meager, the experience is often energizing and unique to the individual attraction. The National Park Service offers jobs in 397 national parks, and private businesses offer even more opportunities.

Jobs That Cultivate Your Passions

If your traditional career didn’t allow for you to pursue your true passions, now is the time. As a retiree, you bring to the table a valuable combination of knowledge, education and experience working with people. Parlay these skills into a job with an organization that is aligned with your personal interests. Consider serving as a theater attendant, a museum archivist or a curator. Explore opportunities to work as an animal trainer, either on your own or through a veterinarian practice. Don’t write off retail roles either. Working in your favorite store, bakery or boutique allows you to embrace your interests and net additional perks such as employee discounts.

Sources:

The Urban Institute: www.urban.org/retirees; “Johnson, Richard W. and Southgate, Benjamin G.  “Labor Force Statistics on Older Americans, Second Quarter 2013”

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