What to Expect When You Retire: By Women for Women

Abstract

Women's labor force participation has steadily increased in the United States since the 1970s, making retirement a relevant concept to women. Current research frequently neglects the unique needs of retiring women and the manner in which women must effectively prepare for retirement. As part of a larger study exploring women's retirement satisfaction, we collected survey data from 230 retired women in a Midwestern state. The qualitative responses contained detailed advice to future retired women on issues of significance to the retirement transition. Specifically, our sample had clear messages about planning ahead, preparing financially, responding to unexpected events, and examining sources for social support. These findings are discussed and recommendations are made to practitioners and professionals working with future female retirees.

KEYWORDS:

• aging
• gender
• later adulthood
• qualitative research
• retirement