Work is a predominant and integral part of each of our lives, providing us with a sense of belonging, purpose and fulfillment. When the time comes for us to retire from our life-long careers, the adjustment period can be far more complicated than what we had anticipated.

What has become increasingly common in recent years is the tendency for retirees to find other activities, social groups, organizations and even part time or freelance work to occupy their time. So essentially, this means that when older adults retire, they don’tfullyretire – they find other forms of “work” to do, which may or may not be related to the career they had their entire lives.

Many older adults and seniors also choose to volunteer and give back to their communities. Volunteer work is satisfying, helpful and gives people a sense of fulfillment and belonging.

It is very common for retirees to feel alone and disconnected from society which is why so many of them seek alternative ways to stay involved. In addition to paid and volunteer work, there are many other options available to older adults and seniors to keep them associated with society including social groups and organizations, activities, outings, tours, regular meet-ups and so on. Social networks give seniors a way to meet others with similar qualities and interests.

As human beings, the vast majority of us are built with a strong desire to belong. When we do not have this, many of us feel lost and incomplete. Throughout our lives we strive to belong in school, in sports, in our careers and in our families. As we grow older, a few or possibly even all of these things may slip away from us, at which point most of us will seek alternative ways tobelong.

Given the fact that our baby boom generation and our generation of seniors ahead are ones that are more involved, healthy and active than ever before, they must have activities and employment options at their disposal which directly cater to who they are and what needs they have as older adults.  It is imperative that this fastest growing demographic is not only recognized butservedin an effective manner.