Healthy pathways to retirement: a qualitative study exploring the views and needs of older workers

Abstract Background Workers have to work longer than before due to an increasing statutory retirement age. Extending paid working lives can have substantial consequences for the health of workers. An increasing number of workers experience difficulties following healthy pathways to retirement (HPTR). To optimize the support of older workers with following HPTR, it is important to first understand workers’ views and needs regarding HPTR. The aim of this study is to explore older workers’ views towards HPTR and their needs for following HPTR. Methods Focus groups and semi-structured interviews were conducted between February and April 2024 with older workers, recently retired or retiring within the upcoming four years ( n = 22). Data were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed. Results HPTR cover the period from working life to and beyond the retirement transition. Workers’ health and aspects from the work and social environment contribute to HPTR, e.g., work pleasure, working in a pleasant work environment and having both good physical and mental health. The needs for following HPTR were captured in three themes, i.e., an age-friendly work environment; balancing out work, health, and personal life; and preparing for a new phase in life. Conclusions Needs for HPTR in various domains were identified, with the organizational context playing a predominant role. Employers should increase their effort in creating age-friendly work environments and implementing organizational policies that meet workers’ needs, to optimally support older workers in following HPTR.