Mobilizing Resources for Well-being: Implications for Developing Interventions in the Retirement Transition. (3rd February 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Heaven, Ben; O'Brien, Nicola; Evans, Elizabeth H.; White, Martin; Meyer, Thomas D.; Mathers, John C.; Moffatt, Suzanne
• Is Part Of: Gerontologist. Volume 56:Number 4(2016:Aug.)
• Page Start: 615
• Page End: 629
• Publication Date: 2015-02-03
• Subjects: Retirement -- Well-being -- Intervention -- Later life; Older people -- Periodicals; Older people -- United States -- Periodicals; 305.2605
• DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnu159
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0016-9013

Abstract

Abstract: Purpose of the Study: Good health and well-being in later life are central issues for public health. Retirement presents an opportunity to intervene to improve health and well-being, as individuals may adjust associated lifestyle behaviors. However, there is little evidence about how well-being is experienced in the context of increasingly diverse retirement transitions. Our objectives were to explore (a) views on health and well-being through retirement transitions and (b) acceptability of intervening in this period. Design and Methods: Qualitative study involving 48 workers/retirees, aged 53–77 years of diverse socioeconomic status, were recruited from urban and rural areas in North East England. Data were collected iteratively through focus groups ( n = 6), individual interviews ( n = 13), interviews with couples ( n = 4), using the constant comparative method. Analysis was informed by theories of the Third Age and Sen's capabilities approach. Results: Diverse retirement transitions were shaped by unanticipated events. Central to well-being was the "capability" to utilize resources to achieve desirable outcomes. Participants rejected a "later life" identity, associating it with decline, and an uncertain future. Implications: Lifestyle interventions that address challenges within the retirement transition may be acceptable. Inducements to change behavior based on possible long-term outcomes may be less appealing. Providing assistance to use resources to address personal goals may be central to effective interventions.