Between 1977 and 2007, employment of workers 65 and over increased 101%, with the employment of women 65 and older increasing 147% (United States Department of Labor, 2008). An aging and older workforce is becoming increasingly female. This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of women working past the traditional retirement age of 62. The cohort of women born between 1930 and 1945 are the focus of this study. With changing workforce trends, and longer life expectancies, we can expect to see more women working longer.

This study focused on the following questions: Why are these women still working, and what are their expectations of work at this stage of life. Preliminary data collected through an online survey created an initial profile of these women; in-depth interviews with 12 of the surveyed women provided a more intimate view of their experiences.

Several findings emerged from this study. These women work for reasons that range from sustaining financial independence, to enjoying the challenge and connection that work offers. Most envision working well into their 70s. Their fears are focused on money and health. The most important role for most of the women in this study is as mother, grandmother, or matriarch of the family. They described success in terms of personal rather than professional accomplishments. Achieving balance in their lives is of high priority for all of them. Their visions are to keep moving, continue doing what they are doing now, and be working in a way that allows them to continue contributing.

This study collectively unites a group of women at the same stage of life. Their advice to younger working women is to strive for work and life balance, to find enjoyable work, and to plan financially. Implications for the organizations that currently employ older women suggest the importance of recognizing experience and age. Older working women want challenging work, autonomy, recognition of their value, fair and adequate remuneration, and a flexible work schedule with more time off. Women working longer are striving to be more fully balanced.