Occupational transitions: How do work-related factors influence the work-to-retirement transition process?

Conference Contribution ResearchOnline@JCU

Eagers, Jackie;Franklin, Richard;Broome, Kieran;Yau, Matthew

Abstract

Background: The work-to-retirement transition process results in changes to life structure and identity making retirement from work a major occupational transition. This paper will explore the influence of work-related factors on the work-to-retirement transition. Findings will be discussed in terms of opportunities for occupational therapy in this occupational transition. Method: Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with participants aged 50 years and over who had voluntarily retired within the past five years. Recruitment occurred via a range of mechanisms including through local services and organisations and the research teams' networks. Thematic analysis was conducted for each of the work-to-retirement transition stages (preparation, transition, and retired). Discussion/Outcomes: To date, eleven interviews (5 females, 6 males) have been conducted with people from a variety of pre-retirement occupations. Preliminary findings include themes around: time to move on, wrapping up work (preparation); work influencing retirement timing, work infiltrating retirement, feeling retired, (transition); freedom from work, identity reconceptualisation, filling retirement with work-like activities (retired). Conclusion: Work-related factors influence all stages of the work-to-retirement transition process. Occupational therapy's role encompasses vocational rehabilitation and ageing. Occupational therapy can also play an important role in facilitating the work-to-retirement transition process with the ultimate goal to enable active (and) healthy ageing.

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NT/QLD Division OT Conference: Pratitioners of the Future

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Brisbane, QLD, Australia

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Occupational Therapy Australia

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Brisbane, QLD, Australia

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