Four out of 10 now expect to work beyond retirement
About four out of every 10 people expect to continue doing paid work after they have retired from full-time employment.
Nearly as many people believe that their retirement will include a part-time job in voluntary or charity work.
The figures come from a survey of nearly 1,700 local residents carried out by Island Global Research for the charity Ageing Well in the Bailiwick.
‘This reflects a redefinition of retirement, with many viewing work as a way to supplement their income for financial need, or stay mentally and socially engaged, or share their skills and expertise in flexible and senior-friendly roles,’ said the charity’s chairman, David Inglis.
‘These findings underscore the need for workplaces to accommodate the unique requirements of older workers, such as offering part-time or project-based opportunities.’
The wide-ranging survey captured the future expectations of 1,054 residents who have not yet retired. It also provided an insight into the current experiences of 619 people who have already retired.
The findings will be discussed with deputies tomorrow at a presentation arranged by Ageing Well in the Bailiwick.
One in three retired people said their home was larger than they needed, and one in four who have not yet retired expressed concern that their current home may not meet their future needs in retirement.
‘These findings highlight the evolving housing requirements of retirees, emphasising the importance of providing diverse housing options, such as smaller, accessible homes or retirement communities which cater to their changing lifestyles,’ said Mr Inglis.
Separate research carried out by the Environment & Infrastructure Committee indicated that 82% of households with pensioners had at least one bedroom more than they needed and that some of them would like to move.
Writing in today’s Guernsey Press, E&I president Lindsay de Sausmarez acknowledged the barriers faced by older people who want to move for a variety of reasons. She said that the States was looking at ways to support people in this situation.
‘One of the biggest barriers is finding suitable properties to move into because of the particular shortage of smaller homes. That’s changing for the better,’ she said.
‘Most of the homes in the planning permission pipeline are now for the kinds of smaller units we know people are looking for.
‘There may also be demand for different types of development specifically for retired people – one of the areas I think is worth exploring further.
It ties in with some work that we’re starting next year to see what we can do to help people stay in their own home for longer – something that not only benefits them but also could ease some of the growing pressure on our long-term care sector.’
When respondents to the survey were asked about their housing preferences in retirement, they said the most important factor was having off-street parking at home. The next most important factors were having private outdoor space, a home which was easy to maintain and had spare rooms, the opportunity to have a pet at the property, and being within walking distance of shops.
‘The survey findings paint a picture of a retirement landscape that is dynamic and evolving,’ said Mr Inglis.
‘Retirees and those planning for retirement are placing greater emphasis on practical living arrangements, continued engagement in the workforce, and lifestyle conveniences.
‘These insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers, businesses and community planners aiming to meet the needs of an ageing population.’
