Some older Americans are working past 80 to supplement Social Security and cover expenses amid rising inflation and health issues, with the number of workers 80 and older increasing by 25% since 2022.
Many like Jim Uhrinyak, 82, are taking on part-time jobs like being a driver inspector to make ends meet, with some facing risky job conditions to afford groceries, medications, and bills.
An analysis by Gusto shows a 25% growth in the number of workers 80 and older since 2022, with many forced to reconsider or rejoin the labor force due to economic challenges and rising prices.
Older workers, like Uhrinyak, have taken on new jobs to cope with health issues and financial strains, with some having to endure physically demanding or precarious roles to support themselves.
The job market poses challenges for older Americans, pushing them towards blue-collar positions and part-time work as well-paying opportunities diminish, resulting in workers like Pamela Levier, 81, struggling to find stable employment.
Some older workers, driven by financial stability and fulfillment, continue working despite not being desperate for income, highlighting the importance of staying engaged and active in later years.
Lawrence Dugan, 80, emphasizes the value of work in keeping him feeling young while acknowledging concerns about future economic uncertainties.
For many older workers, work serves as a means to supplement Social Security income, cover essential expenses, and find purpose and stimulation beyond financial needs, as highlighted in various personal accounts.
The workforce dynamics among older Americans reflect a mix of financial necessity, health considerations, and the desire to remain active and engaged in work, showcasing the complexities of retirement and financial planning in later years.
As older individuals navigate the challenges of sustaining income and meeting expenses, the stories shared underscore the critical role that work plays in the lives of many elderly Americans.