The Experiences of Career Transition to New Occupations Among the Retired Elderly

Abstract

This research aims to study the experiences of career transition to new occupations among the retired elderly. Utilizing a qualitative descriptive phenomenological approach, the study involved eight Thai retirees residing in Thailand, selected through purposive sampling, with in-depth interviews serving as the primary data collection tool. The findings revealed five core themes regarding these transition experiences: 1) Reasons for retirement, comprising organizational policies and regulations, family caregiving responsibilities, and personal aspirations; 2) Post-retirement career planning, involving both planned and unplanned transitions; 3) Motivations for transitioning to new occupations, including income supplementation, supporting loved ones, and pursuing dream-driven work; 4) Conditions for a successful career transition, consisting of family upbringing and experiences, professional expertise from past work, resilience against obstacles, and receiving support from family and close associates; and 5) The value and meaning of new occupations, encompassing happiness in working, providing help and care to others through work, fostering relationships, and achieving self-sufficiency. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the transition process and can serve as a guideline for psychological counseling services and the development of support systems to promote employment among the elderly.