How and Why Retirees Continue Working Into Their Golden Years

Before diving into specific jobs, it’s worth noting why retirees return to work. According to a 2024 Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies survey, 57% of workers plan to work in retirement (36% part-time, 21% full-time), driven by:

Financial Needs: 48% seek additional income to supplement Social Security or savings, especially as inflation and living costs rise. Many lack sufficient retirement savings, with some states requiring over $1 million for a comfortable retirement. Financially, I've been doing well since I left the workforce at the age of 46. Eleven years later, I continue staying above board and sporadically buying metals and ISO20022 cryptocurrencies as a hedge before I reach SSA retirement age of 67.

Personal Fulfillment: 52% want to stay active, 48% aim to keep their minds sharp, and 36% seek a sense of purpose. Social connections (27%) also play a role.Health Benefits: Work can provide access to group health insurance, critical for those not yet eligible for Medicare (age 65).Retirees often prefer part-time, remote, or seasonal roles to maintain flexibility for hobbies, family, or travel. The rise of the gig economy and remote work has expanded opportunities, with many employers relaxing degree requirements in favor of skills and experience, benefiting older workers.