Retirement is not what it used to be.
Fewer and few retirees are going home and staying there. The fact is after retirement from one career, thousands are beginning new ones. Decades ago, Del Webb stopped installing shuffle boards in their retirement communities and started adding home offices to meet the demands of their customers.
In many cases, homes are now paid for, children have been educated and the senior population has free time to pursue other exciting options.
Others are going back to work because their retirement funds are not sufficient to live on and some because they are simply bored.
If working, for whatever reason, appeals to you, where do you begin?
Some years ago, in anticipation of the Boomer generation, AARP joined forces with Home Depot, John Hopkins Health Systems, Kelly Services Inc., Manpower and Walgreens, just to name a few, to link workers 50 and older with job opportunities.
Companies nationwide are recognizing the value of the older worker, primarily through the appreciation for their stability and experience. Online recruitment services like Indeed and LinkedIn offer resources for all walks of life.
Seniors can become caregivers or companions for shut-ins. Woodworking hobbies become profitable as do other hobbies like ceramics and knitting. The lady that made the mittens worn by Bernie Sanders on Inauguration Day, now has her own website and yes, her mittens are for sale.
Dreams of owning their own business can and have come true for many of us. Freelance writers, crafters, teaching classes at community colleges, opening child care centers and caterers are just a few possibilities. Holding yoga or Zumba classes, or teaching about herbal potions and lotions are other options and almost all of the above will allow you to set your own schedule.
A neighbor not far from me built a little shelter not unlike the mini libraries that have sprung up all over town. She sells fresh produce, homemade candles and creams on the honor system.
With all the computer programs available today, interior design and graphic artists can work from the comfort of their own home.
Mary Kay, Princess House and other in-home parties are another way to earn a little or a lot and several of these companies are now hosting their ‘parties’ online. Pet sitting and/or walking is another popular way to get your exercise in while earning some extra cash.
The increased income is not the only bonus here. Meeting new friends, learning new or refining existing skill sets, enjoying a sense of contributing to your community and having a reason to get up in the morning are all important parts of aging well.
To explore employment opportunities aimed at seniors, check LinkedIn, Indeed or AARP websites.
Kathleen Anderson writes this column each week. Contact her at kathleen@theJOLTnews.com or post your comment below.
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