Work hungry over-50s 'feel young again'
30th July 2007
There was once a time when the over-50s would be packed off to a care home after retirement. Moving away from home seemed the viable option in some cases with less hassle, less cost and less responsibility. People would retire at 65, not needing or wanting to carry on working for an extra few years. This was traditional, no complaints.
But now, it seems, there is a shift taking place. A growing number of over-50s - in the self-employed sector at least - are choosing to carry on making cash until it suits them. There are no limits to striving on for a generation that feels more vibrant and more energetic. Research from the Small Enterprise Research team at the Open University has stated that the self-employed don't want to settle down and enjoy a cosy retirement, instead opting to live the life of the young until their 70s in some cases.
Furthermore, while some may have considered selling their businesses in order to enjoy a comfortable retirement, reports the Western Mail, now there seems no reason to suddenly break free from the things that make us feel active and youthful. However, with more people deciding to engage in work for longer, it's perhaps best to bear in mind the added problems that come with living life to the full.
In many instances, self-employment will of course mean that a home will have to include a number of work-related gadgets and equipment, such as computers and important files. Those wishing to plough on in the work arena may find that they benefit from taking out home insurance to cover these items. With the period of home living also likely to be extended, more general home insurance products could also come in handy.
And the reasons to do so are many. The research from the Open University also stated that there are psychological benefits to carrying on work. Inner feelings such as wanting to overcome difficult challenges do not end at 65; despite age people wish to prove themselves and see what they can achieve. Recent laws also mean that it is now a criminal act to treat older workers unfairly, no matter where the workplace may be. A new lease of life can be provided via new careers and fresh opportunities, states Retirement Expert.co.uk.
Once these insurance methods are in place, there is nothing better to do than continue in a business, it appears. While once the care home was an attractive proposition, now it has been replaced by the desire and fire to strive into the future.