A growing number of older Americans are returning to work as retirement becomes financially unsustainable, according to a report by CBS News.
The report said nearly one in five people aged 65 and older is working or seeking jobs, the highest level in decades. Many cite rising living costs and limited savings as key reasons. The average Social Security benefit stands at about $2,071 per month, while basic expenses exceed $4,600, creating a significant shortfall.
According to federal data and research cited in the report, longer life expectancy and inadequate retirement savings are driving this trend. A 2024 AARP survey found many older Americans lack savings and fear inflation will outpace income.
Some seniors are taking physically demanding roles or shifting careers, while others start small ventures. Experts say older workers bring valuable skills, but many are working out of necessity rather than choice, reflecting deeper economic pressures.
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American workers have dreams of throwing in the towel by their mid-60s and spending the rest of their days in cushy retirement—but it’s become less of a reality for most. https://t.co/SAWQdSb4Fk pic.twitter.com/lafZxPGvph
— FORTUNE (@FortuneMagazine) May 2, 2026
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