Brief Older Adults' Engagement Should Be Recognized and Encouraged
Sheila R. Zedlewski, Simone G. Schaner
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This brief examines the types and intensity of engagement among adults age 55 and older using data from the 2002 Health and Retirement Study (HRS). The results show high levels of engagement, with 80 percent of older adults participating in formal or informal volunteer work, paid work, or caregiving. While engagement varies by age group, activity, and personal characteristics, older engaged Americans contribute an average of 1,300 hours annually to the above activities. The authors conclude with a discussion of the implications of the findings and recommendations for different initiatives that could further increase engagement. [View the corresponding press release]

Research Areas Aging and retirement
Tags Retirement policy Volunteering
Policy Centers Income and Benefits Policy Center