The number of retired Omanis who continue working past their retirement age is steadily increasing each year, as both men and women find new ways to stay active in their later years. Official statistics from the ministries of manpower and commerce reveal that approximately 34 percent of Omanis who retired between 2018 and 2023 have either taken up part-time jobs or started their own businesses.
This trend is expected to continue growing in the future, as more retired individuals refuse to simply stay at home and do nothing. Many Omanis now view the traditional concept of retirement, where elderly individuals spend their days at home sipping coffee and watching television, as a complete waste of time.
One possible reason for this shift is the advancements in medicine that allow people to live longer and healthier lives. This encourages retired individuals to continue making valuable contributions to society. However, upon closer examination, it is worth noting that the official retirement age in Oman is five years younger than in most other countries. While the retirement age in Oman is 60, it is typically 65 in other nations, with some countries like the United Kingdom even considering raising it further.
In my conversations with both men and women in Oman, many believe that 60 is too young to simply sit at home and watch cobwebs form on their ceilings. But what do medical experts say about extending the retirement age indefinitely? They agree that it is beneficial for our mental faculties to remain active as long as it does not cause excessive stress. However, it is important to acknowledge that young people often experience work-related stress due to office deadlines. Many of them aspire to have their own businesses, allowing them to work at their own pace.
This is precisely what older individuals are doing after retirement – establishing small businesses to keep themselves engaged. By doing so, they can work at their own pace and have full control over their daily routines. Medical experts also support this approach, as staying at home and doing nothing can have negative implications. Not only does the body deteriorate, but mental health can also decline, leading to conditions such as senility and dementia.
There are numerous options available for individuals to stay engaged after the age of 60, beyond just part-time work or starting a business. Engaging in volunteer work, participating in charitable activities, or mentoring young individuals are all meaningful avenues for them to explore.
These activities can provide retired individuals with fresh challenges that they may not have had the opportunity to pursue while they were employed. The notion of having "enough money" is no longer a valid excuse. Simply playing golf or traveling may not be sufficient to stimulate the mind. Additionally, not every retired person desires to pursue those leisurely paths.
Furthermore, health concerns often arise as one grows older, making it difficult for the body to engage in rigorous physical activities. However, the mind remains capable of thinking and retaining life experiences that can be passed on to younger generations. It is all about the mindset rather than physical limitations. People are more interested in hearing your thoughts rather than the sounds of your aging bones.
Regardless of age, we now understand that retirement is not what it used to be. We can all make valuable contributions to society and assist young individuals in gaining the necessary experience.
