Unexpected link between retirement and improved health revealed

Particularly beneficial for women

In a large-scale study that involved more than 20 thousand people across Europe, scientists came to the conclusion that an employee’s retirement can improve his health and improve his mood. According to the study, women may feel happier in retirement.

Some are resistant to the prospect of retiring. However, this step can make a person feel happier and healthier. That’s what science says.

The study, which involved more than 20,000 people aged 50 to 80 in ten European countries, found that retirement has a transformative effect on everyday life.

Former office workers may improve their health by taking more walks or taking exercise classes, according to researchers.

Those who stopped working were more likely to say they felt good or excellent than those who went to work.

The researchers found that study participants who quit their jobs were actually less likely to experience physical difficulty completing daily activities (such as housework).

The study, published in the journal Economics and Human Biology, found that mental health was particularly better after retirement for managers and office workers, as well as women.

Scientists say women may feel happier than men in retirement because they tend to spend more free time with family and friends.

However, early retirement did not bring significant health benefits.

Professor Rein van Ewijk from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz in Germany, who led the experiment, said: “Those with stressful jobs who are overworked may feel a real sense of relief after retirement and generally feel healthier and better.”