What's Happening?
A recent survey conducted by AARP has revealed that a growing number of Americans aged 50 and over are returning to the workforce after retirement, a trend referred to as 'unretiring.' The survey, which included responses from 2,083 adults aged 50 and up,
found that 7% of retirees have re-entered the labor force in the past six months, an increase from 6% in the summer of 2025. The primary motivation for this shift is financial necessity, as many retirees are struggling to cope with the rising cost of living. Carly Roszkowski, vice president of financial resilience programming at AARP, noted that the traditional concept of retirement as a definitive end to working life is no longer a reality for many. The survey also highlighted challenges faced by older workers, including age discrimination and health issues, with 67% of respondents indicating difficulty in finding new employment.
Why It's Important?
The trend of 'unretiring' among older Americans underscores significant economic pressures faced by this demographic, particularly in the context of high inflation and volatile stock markets. As retirees often rely on fixed incomes from Social Security and retirement investments, the rising cost of living can severely impact their financial stability. This development has broader implications for the U.S. labor market, potentially increasing competition for jobs and affecting wage dynamics. Additionally, the challenges of age discrimination and health-related employment barriers highlight systemic issues that need addressing to support older workers. The trend also reflects broader societal shifts in retirement planning and financial security, emphasizing the need for policies that enhance economic resilience for aging populations.
What's Next?
As the trend of 'unretiring' continues, it is likely to prompt discussions among policymakers and financial planners about how to better support older Americans in maintaining financial security. Potential responses could include policy measures to address age discrimination in the workplace and initiatives to improve access to job opportunities for older workers. Additionally, there may be increased advocacy for reforms in retirement savings plans and Social Security to better accommodate the financial needs of retirees. Employers may also need to adapt their hiring practices and workplace environments to be more inclusive of older workers, recognizing the value of their experience and skills.
