The current retirement age for Americans receiving full Social Security benefits is 67, though partial benefits are available at age 62. Discussions about raising the retirement age to 69 or higher have been ongoing, ostensibly with an eye toward keeping Social Security solvent. While financial concerns drive these debates, staying in the workforce may benefit our mental well-being in the long run.
Why Working Longer May Benefit Your Brain
Financial stability isn’t the only reason to extend a career. Studies show that continuing to work can also help slow cognitive decline as we age.
Stay Engaged to Stay Sharp
While some retirees remain active, others don’t. “Active” can mean many things, however. Playing golf occasionally is beneficial, for example, but it doesn’t provide the regular mental stimulation that a career does.
Steady work in older years keeps our brains and our bodies active, promotes regular social interaction and provides tasks to accomplish, problems to solve, and schedules to meet. Mentally stimulating careers that require varied tasks and regular critical thinking are the most beneficial.
Challenging Careers Offer Cognitive Benefits Even After Retirement
A study cited by U.S. News & World Report also revealed a link between career choice and cognitive health later in life. About 42% of participants over the age of 70 who had repetitive, minimally engaging jobs experienced moderate cognitive decline, compared to just 27% of those with more mentally engaging professions.
In summary, careers can help us stave off cognitive decline, even after we retire, but mentally challenging careers offer the most benefits.
Elevate Your Career With New Credentials
The University of Florida offers online graduate programs in aging designed to help keep your professional skills sharp and your resume current:
Degrees
You can complete either of these 30-credit degree programs without a thesis requirement.
Certificate
You may be able to apply some or all the 15 credits you earn from this certificate program to either of the MS degree programs above, should you decide to pursue one in the future.
Explore Our Program Advantages
Regardless of the UF online program you choose, you’ll enjoy many distinctive benefits:
Prestige
In 2024, U.S. News & World Report ranked UF among the:
- Best National Universities
- Top Public Schools
- Best Value Schools
- Most Innovative Schools
Ease of Admission
Secure admission with no GRE scores or clinical experience.
Affordability
Receive an affordable education from the institution Money magazine rated as costing “significantly less” than others included in its 2024-2025 ratings.
Faculty
Learn from noted researchers and experts in the field.
Flexibility
Complete coursework anywhere on your own schedule through entirely online, asynchronous courses.
Duration
Finish your program in as little as one year.
Plan now for a fulfilling career and life beyond. Apply to the online UF program of your choice today.
Sources:
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/university-of-florida-1535/overall-rankings
https://money.com/best-colleges/profile/university-of-florida/