While many people are winding down towards retirement once they hit 60, it’s becoming increasingly common for the older generation to embark on a career change in their 60s.
Almost one in three workers expect to be 67 or older when they retire, and close to half of the new jobs created last year were taken by people 55-and-over. There are many alternative career paths people in their 60s can take.
Popular Jobs Among Over 60s
You shouldn’t be discouraged from entering any profession because of your age. It is illegal for employers to discriminate against candidates based on this. Many people in their 60s have the energy, drive and determination to start a successful career in a range of occupations.
It is important to remember nobody can work forever. Be realistic about the occupations you can enter if you are in your 60s. For example, while certainly possible, it may not be the best idea to embark on a career change that requires years of training or education, such as becoming a doctor or solicitor.
There are several career choices popular with people over the age of 60, here we have listed a select few:
-
Teaching Assistant
Teaching assistants work under the supervision of a qualified teacher to provide students with extra support and attention in the classroom. Formal qualifications are not required to become a teaching assistant, and the short training that is needed is straightforward to complete. Further, part-time and flexible working hours are often permitted. If you enjoy working with children, this could be an excellent career for you.
-
Tutor
If you have a strong background in an academic area, you could help students successfully learn and gain the knowledge they need to excel in a particular field.
-
Retail Sales
Retail workers assist in many tasks, including cashiering, supporting customers with their purchases and maintaining stock levels. This role is available in a range of stores, including garden centres, book and music shops, clothing stores and automobile dealers. A job as a retail sales assistant is excellent for people looking for a role that involves social contact with members of their community.
-
Handyperson
If you have strong technical abilities, or the desire to learn, a handyperson could be an excellent role for you. It can be a way of earning extra money while keeping mentally engaged and physically fit. This role could involve anything from repairing a leaky sink to assembling flat-pack furniture.
Flexibility is Key
When looking for employment opportunities it could be useful to look for positions that allow for part-time or flex-time work. This style of working is less full-on and will give you the time to enjoy your home and social life.
