The Anti-Aging Secret for Some 80-Year-Olds: Staying Employed

Approaching the age of 90, Al Faber maintains a busy schedule, often clocking 50-hour workweeks. Yet, his motivation isn't financial.

"Though I'm 87, I feel like I'm 67," shared Faber, anticipating continuing his work well into his 90s. "I find purpose in being helpful to others—friends, family, and beyond."

Faber is among numerous Americans in their 80s who have expressed to Business Insider their choice to work beyond traditional retirement age stems from a desire for personal fulfillment and social engagement rather than financial necessity. Some continue to lead businesses they founded many years ago, while others stay active in professions they cherish. The additional income might fund leisure travel or unexpected medical bills, though it isn't the main reason they remain in the workforce.

Individuals in their 80s and 90s are a small segment of the U.S. labor market, but their presence has notably increased lately. Individuals in these older age brackets account for roughly one in every 1,000 U.S. employees, according to data from Gusto, a provider of payroll and HR services for small businesses, featuring records from over 400,000 clients.

From January 2022 to February this year, there was a 24% rise in employees aged 80 and up, in contrast to the general workforce's growth of about 4% within the same period.

Nich Tremper, a senior economist at Gusto, attributes this trend to two main factors: longer life expectancies and increased living costs. "Even in retirement, expenses remain high," he noted. "Some might consider finding employment again to earn additional income."

Despite not fitting this financial need category, many seniors past 66 or 67 continue working due to financial strains, with some noting how unexpected health issues or job losses depleted their retirement funds, leaving Social Security benefits insufficient.

Tremper indicated that those 80 and older often work in fields like education and healthcare, with the most job gains post-2022 observed in retail and wholesale sectors, where part-time roles are common. As per Gusto, 85% of these older workers are employed part-time.

Finding Joy in the Workplace

Living near Boston, Faber appreciates how daily interactions and new experiences enhance his life's quality.

His background in public accounting and managerial roles in development counseling paved the way for creating Alan Faber Growth Strategies in his 70s, a consulting firm he still oversees, though with reduced hours.

He emphasizes the importance of face-to-face meetings and maintains physical well-being through exercises like weightlifting and running. Although some workdays are demanding, Faber says that engaging with others is rejuvenating.

"If my motives were purely monetary, I wouldn't invest so much time in volunteering," he reflected. He also observes that some in their 60s and 70s appear much older because they lack social engagement.

Finding Satisfaction Beyond Retirement

Retinal specialist Charles Mango, 82, has dedicated over half a century to his field, working a full week and finding fulfillment in patient interactions.

Based in Syracuse, New York, Mango affirms he could retire anytime, yet his passion for his work keeps him busy. While he has reduced hospital surgeries due to the pandemic, he continues minor procedures in his office.

"As long as my health supports it, I don’t see why I should stop," he said.

Another example is Andrea Hutchinson, who feels a strong connection to the restaurant industry, having served 40 years in various capacities at Pierce's Pitt Bar-B-Que in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Her loyalty encompasses not just business success but also friendships and an active lifestyle, which Hutchinson finds hard to relinquish.

"If my job ended, I'd be unlikely to seek employment elsewhere," she remarked. "It’s gratifying to feel needed and heard."

Jay Crisford, at 83, is still involved with Front Desk Office Furniture, a venture he began in 1993 in Dallas. Though planning a gradual transition to retirement, he enjoys the social and personal growth his work provides.

When suggested to retire, Crisford quips he already enjoys weekends off. His expertise and industry connections make leaving difficult.

"There's no specific age for retirement," he declared, "and those working should enjoy it or reconsider their choices."