The Older Worker's Guide

Working in later life

A satisfying job can help you to maintain good physical health and mental well-being, and to stay socially connected as you get older.

But working in later life may also present challenges. Your ability to work may be affected by a health condition or disability, or you may be working alongside caring for someone who has health problems.

Deciding when to retire

There has been no fixed retirement age for men or women since 2011. Most people can now decide when they retire, but the decision can be complex. It involves balancing available finances against quality of life and how this is affected by working longer.

State Pension age is currently increasing from 66 a little at a time, and will reach 67 by March 2028. Many people may need to continue working into their late 60s to make sure their income will cover the cost of living. 

This guide provides basic information about the rights and issues most likely to affect people who continue to work into older age.