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By Diane Griffith, HealthAtoZ writer
Does life as you know it have to end on your 65th birthday? You may have big plans for retirement - or you may want to keep working. If so, maybe it's time to find the job you'll love instead of the job you need.
The good news is that the job market for seniors will only improve in the years to come.
It's important to know that once you start collecting Social Security benefits, there are special rules concerning how much you may earn without reducing your benefits. Before starting a new job, learn how these rules affect you. Call the Social Security Office's toll free number (1-800-772-1213).
Job ideas for older workers
Small businesses and non-profits tend to be senior friendly. The following positions are good matches for seniors.
- Teaching assistant. As classroom sizes grow, so does the need for classroom aides. On-the-job training is often available.
- Bank Teller. Banks find older workers reliable, responsible and customer friendly.
- Greeter. You've seen them at Wal-Mart, but other companies - like car dealerships - are hiring them, too.
- Consultant. Consulting jobs are in demand by companies that want to outsource work. Check with past employers to see if they can use your services.
- English instructor. If you like to travel, check out programs that send older Americans overseas to teach English. Some training is required. You can find these jobs on the Internet by searching for "teaching English as a second language."
- Mystery shopper. Mystery shoppers are sent to restaurants, car dealers and other retailers to check their service. The positions pay about $10 an hour. SecretShopper.com and Service Intelligence are a few of these firms. Watch out for services that ask you to pay a fee - they'll send you catalogues, but won't offer you a job.
- Home care assistant. If you've cared for an elderly loved one, this could be the perfect position for you. Most of the training is on the job. Check hospital Web sites and local classifieds for openings in your area.
- Tour guide. Describe attractions to visitors at museums, ski resorts, parks and other hospitality-oriented businesses. Check the Web sites of these companies for job postings.
- Floral assistant. Florists like to hire seniors because they enjoy working at busy times, like the holidays. Research shows that flowers decrease depression and enhance memory among older Americans.
Changes to come
It's been estimated that in the year 2011, there will be over 4 million more jobs than there are workers. At that time, the oldest of the baby boomers will turn 65. There are 76 million baby boomers, but only 45 million Americans in the next generation (Generation X). Between now and 2013, there will be nearly 31 million job openings for workers with college degrees, but only 23 million new graduates to fill them.
Holding on to older workers
It's believed that in several years, companies will try harder to keep older workers. They are likely to offer flexible work options. These include part-time work, telecommuting, phased retirement, intermittent work, etc. Numerous positions are expected to be available for the following types of workers:
- Secretaries
- Teachers
- School administrators
- Registered nurses
- Accounting and auditing clerks
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