Actual versus preferred work status in older workers: Findings from the New Zealand health, work and retirement study

Abstract

The past two decades have seen a significant increase in labour force participation by older workers, particularly by women and those aged over 65 years. Decisions around work continuation are influenced by financial preparedness for retirement and health status. Also thought to play a part in the work-retirement transition process are work histories, and historically these differ between men and women. For many older workers, employment preferences are not realised and this may impact on psychological and financial well-being in later life.