Retirement has long been viewed as a major life milestone, a time to slow down and enjoy the rewards of years' worth of work. Yet, in today’s evolving world, many people are choosing, or finding it necessary, to extend their working lives beyond the traditional retirement age.

For some, this decision is shaped by financial considerations, while for others it stems from a desire to remain purposeful, socially connected, and mentally active. Continuing work after retirement can bring a renewed sense of meaning and stability, but it also requires careful navigation of changing priorities, energy levels, and personal goals. Understanding the motivations, challenges, and opportunities behind working later in life can help individuals make informed choices that support both their wellbeing and sense of fulfilment in this next chapter.

Why more people are working past retirement

Not too long ago, turning 60 or 65 meant closing one chapter and beginning another. One filled with rest, hobbies, and time for family. But in today’s South Africa, that picture is changing. With people living longer, healthier lives, and the cost of living rising steadily, many are choosing to keep working, not out of reluctance, but often out of necessity or renewed purpose.

According to Stats SA (2025), the average life expectancy in South Africa is now around 64 years for men and 69 years for women, a steady increase from previous decades. While this might sound modest compared to global averages, it still means people are spending more years in retirement than earlier generations ever imagined. For many, that translates to 20 or more years without a steady income, a prospect that can bring as much anxiety as anticipation.

Financial realities are one piece of the puzzle. With rising inflation, healthcare costs, and everyday living expenses, it’s no surprise that more retirees are finding ways to stay in the workforce, whether through part-time consulting, starting businesses, or taking on roles that allow them to share their skills.

But not all motivations are financial. The modern idea of retirement is shifting; it’s less about “stopping work” and more about finding balance between contribution and rest. Many people discover that their careers offered more than just a pay cheque. Work brought structure, connection, and a sense of identity. That’s powerful, because our sense of purpose and belonging are closely tied to how we use our time and feel useful.

More and more, companies are recognising this too. Instead of seeing age as a barrier, they’re valuing the wisdom, mentorship, and emotional steadiness that older employees bring. This redefinition of age and productivity allows people to stay engaged in meaningful ways, even as their goals shift from ambition to legacy.

So, when we ask why more South Africans are working past retirement, the answer isn’t just about money. It’s about adapting to longer lives, changing needs, and the timeless human desire to stay relevant, purposeful, and connected, long after the official retirement clock runs out.

Benefits of working beyond retirement

For many South Africans, the idea of retirement is no longer about stepping away from life’s solutions; it’s about reshaping them. While financial reasons often motivate people to continue working, the benefits reach far deeper than just income.

1. Financial stability and independence

A continued income, even part-time, can relieve the pressure of drawing from savings too soon. With living costs and medical expenses steadily rising, earning an income, no matter how modest, offers a sense of control and peace of mind. It also allows for greater flexibility, whether it helps family members, travelling occasionally, or maintaining a comfortable lifestyle without financial strain.

2. Purpose and identity

For many, work is more than a job; it’s a source of meaning. Having somewhere to go, being able to contribute surrounded by people who value your skills helps preserve a sense of identity. Psychologists often note that purpose is one of the strongest protective factors for mental wellbeing in later life. When people stop working abruptly, they sometimes struggle with a loss of direction. Continuing to work, even in a different capacity, can soften that transition.

3. Social connection and belonging

The workplace offers built-in community and connection, something that can be lost in full retirement. Staying engaged with colleagues or clients' helps combat loneliness, which is one of the most significant emotional challenges older adults faces. Social interaction also boosts mood and supports cognitive health, keeping the mind active and alert.

4. Mental stimulation and cognitive health

Engaging in work that challenges the mind, whether it’s problem-solving, mentoring, or learning new technologies, helps keep the brain sharp. Studies show that continued mental engagement may slow cognitive decline and improve memory retention. It’s not about avoiding ageing but about staying mentally agile and curious.

5. Emotional and physical wellbeing

Research linked with the National Institute of Health suggests that remaining active and engaged in meaningful work or similar roles into older age can support physical health and thus wellbeing. Many retirees say that having “a reason to get up in the morning” gives them renewed energy and emotional balance. It doesn’t mean every extra year of work automatically guarantees health benefits but what matters more is the quality of the work.

6. Legacy and mentorship

Older workers bring perspective and experience that younger generations deeply value. Sharing that wisdom, whether through mentoring, volunteering, or consulting, provides a powerful sense of contribution. It shifts the focus from achievement to legacy, turning work into a meaningful bridge between generations.

7. Lower risk of chronic illness

While rest is important, too much inactivity can contribute to conditions like cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes. Research indicates that older adults who remain engaged in work or structured activities often experience better physical health outcomes, including lower stress levels, healthier blood pressure, and increased daily activity, which can reduce overall health risks. Studies suggest that this effect is strongest when the work is meaningful, manageable, and tailored to the individual’s abilities, highlighting that staying active in later life can be a protective factor for both physical and mental wellbeing.

In short, working beyond retirement isn’t just about necessity, it also gives people the freedom to redefine what this life stage looks like, not as an ending, but as a continuation of purpose, vitality, and engagement.