Seniors might want to think twice.
A new poll conducted by the University of Michigan reveals that many individuals working past the age of 50 believe their jobs positively impact their health and well-being. The survey, which included 3,486 adults between the ages of 50 and 94, found that 67% of workers reported their jobs had a favorable effect on their physical health, while 71% said it positively influenced their mental health. Additionally, 78% of participants noted that work enhanced their overall well-being.
Notably, those aged 65 and older reported the highest benefits from working. Specifically, 32% said their jobs greatly improved their physical health, 41% felt it significantly boosted their mental health, and 39% highlighted improvements in overall well-being. These figures were higher compared to those aged 50-64, who reported similar benefits but at lower percentages.
The poll also found that 42% of respondents over the age of 50 were currently working, with 63% of individuals aged 50-64 and 18% of those 65 and older still in the workforce. However, nearly one-third of those still employed reported that health-related issues such as disability or chronic illness interfered with their ability to continue working.
Dr. Jeffrey Kullgren and his team at the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health emphasized the role of employers in supporting older workers. They suggested that companies can help older adults feel valued by utilizing their skills and creating programs that promote their physical and mental well-being, allowing them to stay engaged in the workforce.
The survey was conducted both online and by phone in August and has a margin of error ranging from 1% to 4% points.
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