Conclusions

The obstacles are ubiquitous, but certainly not insurmountable. If the ambition and ability are there, retirement need not be the only option.

Expert: Wanda Frank, Field Operations Assistant, Experience Works

At the age of 71, Wanda Frank found herself in a situation identical to that of her current clients. After 22 years as a successful radio personality, she was unemployed but hardly ready to retire. So much had changed since she first entered the workforce, and Wanda discovered that without a college degree she was not eligible for the type of jobs she was looking for. Making seemingly the only logical decision, Wanda went back to school and obtained an Associates Degree in Theater Arts from Genesee Community College.

For close to three years now, Wanda has been working with the career center at Experience Works, a national, non-profit organization dedicated to providing training and employment services to senior citizens. Wanda is responsible for job placement in three counties in upstate New York, and has proudly invested herself in the growth and betterment of her peers.

When approaching the issue of employment beyond the retirement age, consider this advice from Wanda:

• Be honest about your abilities. Ask yourself, "What do I have to offer? What do I need?"
• Be willing and ready to learn new skills.
• Embrace progress, and accept change.
• Always look to the future, and understand that personal growth is essential for a happy, healthy life.