A happier old age : a discussion document on elderly people in our society / Dept. of Health and Social Security, Welsh Office.

  • Department of Health and Social Security
Date:
1978
Catalogue details

Licence: Open Government Licence

Credit: A happier old age : a discussion document on elderly people in our society / Dept. of Health and Social Security, Welsh Office. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    2.1 Ageing is a very variable process, both in the way it affects individuals and in the speed with which it does so. Throughout our lives we are constantly having to come to terms with the changes it brings about and to alter our life-style accordingly. Usually the pro- cess is gradual, but for many people, a dramatic change of life-style occurs at the time of retirement. It is particularly difficult to adapt to the loss of a full-time occupation when its timing is not related to the needs and wishes of the individual and there is inadequate prepara- tion. In Chapters 3 and 4 we consider pension age and incomes in retirement. In this chapter we look at preparation for retirement and issues affecting the quality of life in old age, particularly after retirement. a. Preparation for Retirement 2.2 Our society seems to assume that a major aspect of a fulfilled life is employment, but many people live for 20 years or more after retirement and may remain active for much of that time. People therefore need interests and activities during retirement, and there is clearly much value in proper preparation. A number of employers and local education authorities offer courses to help those nearing retirement. Certain voluntary organisations are also active in this sphere. But there are many people who do not receive such help and the Government is anxious that much more should be done. 2.3 Itcan be argued that such courses possibly come too late. True preparation for retirement may often require adjustments in attitudes and life-style throughout the last decade of paid employment and may also depend on financial decisions taken many years earlier. There are important roles for employers, trades unions, local educa-
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