THE RETURN TO WORK OF OLDER ADULTS AFTER RETIREMENT AS A STRATEGY FOR PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING

Abstract

Population aging has intensified discussions about retirement, work, and the mental health of older adults. Although retirement has traditionally been associated with the end of productive life, it may represent freedom and the reorganization of daily routines, but also the loss of social bonds, professional identity, and feelings of usefulness. This article aimed to analyze how returning to work after retirement is related to the mental health and psychological well-being of older adults. This study is an integrative literature review with a qualitative approach, based on the analysis of studies on aging, retirement, mental health, and work. Initially, 15 materials were identified, of which 5 were excluded for not meeting the inclusion criteria, resulting in 10 studies analyzed. The findings indicate that returning to work may promote autonomy, belonging, social recognition, and maintenance of social bonds, especially when it occurs under appropriate conditions and by the older adult’s own choice. However, ageism, precarious working conditions, and overload may negatively affect mental health. It is concluded that returning to work may contribute to psychological well-being when associated with healthy working conditions and the appreciation of older adults’ experience.