Is retirement associated with physical health benefits? A longitudinal investigation with older New Zealanders.

Abstract

the impact of retirement on physical health is an important focus of ageing research; however, research findings vary greatly. To investigate under what conditions retirement might benefit health, we examined physical functioning 8 years pre- and post-retirement. using longitudinal data from the New Zealand Health, Work and Retirement Study, multiple linear trajectories of physical functioning were estimated. Growth mixture analysis indicated three distinct trajectory profiles. Profile 1 displayed good but declining physical functioning from 8 years pre-retirement until retirement, which continued to decline more slowly post-retirement. Profile 2 was characterised by poor and declining physical functioning pre-retirement that improved post-retirement. Profile 3 displayed good and stable physical functioning pre-retirement and a slow decline post-retirement. Significant differences were identified across profiles in smoking behaviour, pre-existing chronic conditions, marital status and educational level. Profile 2 also showed increased economic living standards post-retirement. findings indicate that retirement can be beneficial for those with poor health and limited resources. For the wealthy and healthy, retirement does not necessarily advantage health. Universal superannuation initiatives may partly address inequalities experienced by older persons in poor health and socio-economic circumstances prior to retirement.