Retirement is no longer the norm. Amid soaring inflation, concerns about the sustainability of Social Security, and the rising cost of living, older Americans are choosing not to retire. In fact, many are making a comeback. An increasing number of over-60s are opting to stay in the workforce or even re-enter it after having left. They do so not only to supplement their income but also to feel useful and remain actively engaged in society.
According to a recent survey by insurance company Allianz Life, more than six in ten retirees expect to work at least part-time during retirement, while a significant minority say they can’t even imagine stepping away from the professional world entirely.
This new longevity is not only about life span, it also brings more energy, more skills, and often a renewed desire to contribute. Companies are starting to take notice. Sectors like healthcare, education, and customer service are rediscovering the value of experience and stability. HR managers who traditionally have been hesitant to hire older candidates, are beginning to see seniors not as a burden, but as an asset.
Brittany Truszkowski, Chief Operating Officer of the Arizona-based law firm Grand Canyon Law Group, told Newsweek that mature workers bring rare qualities to the table: a strong work ethic, reliability, and emotional intelligence. She believes that in high-pressure environments these traits make a real difference. Many employers also recognize a financial benefit: those over 60, thanks to their eligibility for Medicare, don’t drive up company insurance costs.
However, challenges remain. Age-related bias persists, and older workers still often face stereotypes: being out of touch with technology or slow to adapt, for example. But things are beginning to shift. Targeted programs, such as those promoted by ManpowerGroup, a global leader in workforce solutions, and the Age-Friendly Institute–a nonprofit focused on creating inclusive environments for people over 50–are helping to bridge the gap between job seekers and opportunities later in life.
And the numbers back up this trend. According to a study by Bain & Company, a leading global consulting firm, by 2030 nearly 150 million jobs worldwide will be held by workers aged 55 and over. These figures call for a paradigm shift: the question is no longer whether hiring an older worker is a good idea, but how to do it best.
