The figures are eye opening. One study shows that close to two-thirds of current workers plan to remain on the job at least one year beyond their expected retirement date. This is an increase of nearly 10 percent from the previous year.

And there is more. More than 25 percent of workers today believe they will be working an additional five years beyond the “traditional” retirement age of 67 due to the sluggish economy.  More than 50 percent of respondents said they expect to be holding either a full-time or part-time job in those final years, while 28 percent said they will likely be working full-time.

Given those estimates, it is no wonder that many workers are uncertain about the future of their jobs.

Of those surveyed, only 25 percent believe they have a solid retirement plan in place. An astonishing 75 percent believe they will be unable to cover their medical bills during retirement. In addition, another quarter of those surveyed are worried about covering basic living expenses. Also, only 25 percent believe they will live comfortably in retirement.

Given all the negative hits the economy has taken in recent years, today’s workers do not view retirement as others did just a few years ago. Then, the majority of individuals who chose not to retire did so to stay challenged. Not so today. Working beyond 67 now is viewed as a necessity to pay for the higher cost of living. Pension checks and social security checks can no longer be relied on to meet expenses in retirement.

But there is an upside in the overall picture.  Financially secure individuals are among those who are living better and longer than generations before. These are people who see retirement as a time to enjoy a variety of activities and not settle down to a sedentary lifestyle. In fact, some individuals find they are doing more in retirement than when they had to punch the clock every day.

If you’re at or nearing retirement and are looking for a flexible work schedule, one that will see you taking on assignments at some of New York City’s finest employers, contact Winston Resources. We have a variety of short- and long-term temporary assignments that could fit your need for flexibility. We look forward to hearing from you.