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1 in 4 Americans Say They'll Never Retire

Recent poll results show that 1 in 4 Americans plan on never retiring. Some view it optimistically as older adults finding purpose in work, others as a growing sign of desperation among older workers. Where does the truth lie?

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Staff Writers 5 Comments
1 in 4 Americans Say They'll Never Retire
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Recently released research from the Associated Press NORC Poll indicates that nearly one quarter of American workers plans never to retire. The rationale underlying this "work-till-you-drop" decision, and whether it's a positive or negative sign of change, is more clouded, though.

For example, follow-up polls indicate that 45% of readers of this information take this as a sign of optimism, since people who have found their calling may not ever want to retire but, the truth could also be slightly darker.

The AP poll that showcases the data, in contrast to the rosy interpretation above, spotlights stories from never-retirees who have fallen on hard times through illness, injury, caregiving duties, or involuntary separations from work. If you're a regular reader of this blog, you'll understand that Age Friendly Advisor has done research that shows these causes are all-too-common for draining the funds of the 50+ worker. The situation is even bleaker when it's compounded with both tacit and overt age discrimination in the workforce that prevents 50+-year-old job seekers from getting work quickly again (if at all).

These factors can have important impacts on other decisions, like retirement and when to claim social security,  creating a cascade of effects that makes them seem less like decisions and more like necessities or eventualities.

Head over to the AP-NORC Poll page for the full write-up and let us know in the comments section below: do you ever plan on retiring? Why (or why not)?

Date posted: Jul 19, 2019
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Work is the one thing that were able to meet our every day measure with others that keeps our minds and hearts sharp that in some small way opens ourselves to others the Morning ,Noon ,and Night by Keeping on with yesterday today an tomorrow if given Peace an Life?

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I've retired several times (for a few years each) since 1994 -- first time at age 56. I work flexible part-time hours because I love what I do (creative writing / photography); and the money goes into trusts for young people in the family. I have hobbies, exercise, swimming, etc. -- but love my work (conservative politics, healthcare, etc.) and am used to being busy nearly all the time (former workaholic executive).
Here in Florida, wages are incredibly LOW for most people of all ages... if I needed to rely on what I earned here to live, I couldn't afford to work here though.

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With or government stealing our money there won't be retirement. Get rid of the republican and democratic parties. They are nothing but power & money grabbers. High School kids can do a better job for America.

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My biggest fear isn't death, it's becoming irrelevant. I do not plan to retire because I want to continue learning, helping people, and improving others' lives. I like to believe if I'm helping make others' lives simpler and easier I'll remain relevant. We'll see.

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I may not be able to , until im 66, but my health may require me to do so early and also bills

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