SAGE Open
Volume 7, Issue 1, 2017

“Work is like a therapy that prevents aging”: Perceptions of retirement, productivity, and health among minorities and immigrants (Article) (Open Access)

Ruggiano N.* , O’Driscoll J. , Lukic A. , Schotthoefer L.
  • a School of Social Work, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, United States
  • b School of Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, United States
  • c School of Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, United States
  • d United Way of Miami-DadeFL, United States

Abstract

Diversity among the older adult population is expected to increase significantly. In addition, economic, demographic, and social trends in the United States have led to growing interest in understanding attitudes, behaviors, and plans regarding retirement among middle-aged and older adults. However, there is currently little knowledge about minorities’ interests and expectations for retirement. This community-based participatory study addressed gaps in knowledge by asking a diverse sample of adults about their experiences and expectations for retirement. Data collection involved focus groups with Hispanics, Haitians, African Americans, and immigrants living in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The findings indicate that productive activity in later life was desired by participants across racial and ethnic groups, though higher income participants reported having greater opportunities for pursuing desired productive activities later in life. Implications for policy and services are discussed. © The Author(s) 2017.

Author Keywords

minorities immigrants Retirement Productive aging

Index Keywords

[No Keywords available]
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85014436634&doi=10.1177%2f2158244016687234&partnerID=40&md5=a62a345ef05aab025d5c1e652b16f7ad
DOI: 10.1177/2158244016687234
ISSN: 21582440
Original Language: English