ABSTRACT
The percentage of older women who participate in the work force has been increasing; however, participation rates for older men remain higher than for older women. Compared with other ethnic groups, older Asian men have the highest rate of workforce participation, and older Black men are less likely to participate in workforce than older White men. Although Hispanics have a higher than average life expectancy, their rates of participation in the workforce are not proportionately higher than other ethnic groups. This may be due to employment in occupations that are more physically strenuous. Older people face obstacles in finding employment. We outline obstacles and suggest steps that may be helpful. Women and ethnic and cultural minorities view retirement differently from dominant culture, experience retirement differently, have access to fewer retirement benefits, and may face problems in adjusting to retirement. Retirement planning can make a difference in adjustment to retirement.
