A significant number of Russians (approximately half) express no intention of continuing to work past retirement.
Grinning in the twilight years: Pensioners working past retirement age and their thoughts on life after labor
Image: Alexei BULATOV
It appears that the traditional image of a happy-go-lucky retiree sipping cocktails on the Mediterranean coast may no longer apply to the average Russian pensioner - more and more are opting to keep their noses to the grindstone in their golden years. A study by the KP.RU website has shed some light on the choices and perspectives of these senior workers.
A significant proportion (35%) of those surveyed are planning to hold down a job well beyond the traditional retirement age. Many see this decision as a practical choice, while others simply enjoy the thrill of being part of the workforce.
- If I make it, I'll give working a go if possible. There's always time to kick back later, - one respondent shared.
- I'd be up for working if my health holds up, - another added.
Around 13% of pension recipients are already avid employed seniors. Some enjoy their work, while others find themselves in a less-than-ideal situation.
- I've been on the pension roll for 12 years and I'm still on the job. About half a decade ago, I gave up my main gig and landed a part-time job. I wanna keep the good life going, - a survey participant divulged.
- I'd rather not work, but I can't survive on such a pittance, - a respondent confessed.
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Image: Dmitry ORLOV
Meanwhile, nearly half (49%) of the survey participants are eagerly anticipating the end of their working days. They dream of spending their time on family, hobbies, and travel, with work relegated to the annals of the past.
- I'm gonna buy a ticket for a cruise ship and circumnavigate the globe, - one respondent fantasized.
- I'll try to make sure...people work for me, - another quipped.
Three percent of the respondents fell into the "other" category, sharing their thoughts. Some found retirement a daunting mystery.
- How would I know what I'll do in retirement? I'm decades away from it! - a young respondent mused.
Others had already found their post-work passions.
- I'm cleaning up around my house out of ennui. They offered to pay me - I turned them down. I'm not used to having a boss hovering over me after 30 years of retirement! - a respondent noted.
The survey was conducted among subscribers of the KP.RU website across VKontakte, Odnoklassniki, Telegram, and Viber, with a total of 7,400 respondents participating.
Digging Deeper:
Between Necessity and Pleasure:The decision to keep working during retirement is influenced by a number of factors for Russian pensioners. Financial insecurity, access to better healthcare and benefits, social interaction, and personal growth may all play a part in pushing pensioners to hold down a job well past the typical retirement age.
Struggling with the System:Recent payment delays of pensions from Russia to retirees in Estonia have caused significant stress and uncertainty for many retirees, increasing anxiety over their financial security. Additionally, frustrations over systemic delays or issues in pension payment systems are common.
Appreciating Options:Those who can continue working may appreciate the opportunity to supplement their income and maintain financial independence. However, those who have health issues or are otherwise unable to work may feel disadvantaged.
In conclusion, Russian pensioners face a complex set of challenges and opportunities in retirement, with financial security being a primary factor driving the decision to work or retire. Emotions about the situation can vary widely, depending on individual circumstances and experiences.
- Despite the traditional image of a blissful retiree, many Russian pensioners are choosing to work beyond the traditional retirement age, as seen in a study by KP.RU.
- Around 35% of the surveyed pensioners are planning to work past the retirement age, with some viewing it as a practical choice and others enjoying the thrill of working.
- Around 13% of pension recipients are already employed seniors, with some enjoying their work and others in less-than-ideal situations.
- Almost half of the survey participants (49%) are eagerly awaiting the end of their working days, dreaming of spending their time on family, hobbies, and travel.
