The Unique Retirement Challenges of Workers in Physically Demanding Jobs

Retirement systems around the world are struggling to remain sustainable as a result of increasing lifespans, lower fertility levels and rising costs of living. Consequently, many people are working longer, out of necessity or desire, beyond the traditional retirement age.

For workers in physically demanding jobs (referred to as physical workers), the notion of working longer presents unique challenges. Because their work is physically demanding, they may find it increasingly difficult, if not impossible, to continue performing their duties as they grow older until they are financially ready to retire.

How are physical workers planning and preparing for retirement? How can they extend their working lives? What opportunities are available? What obstacles will they encounter? What can be done to help them improve their retirement security?

The Unique Retirement Challenges of Workers in Physically Demanding Jobs examines the unique circumstances among workers in physically demanding occupations (referred to as physical workers) that undermine their ability to achieve financial security in retirement. This research report is based on a survey of 16,000 respondents including 4,800 physical workers in 15 countries: Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Japan, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom, and United States. The online survey was conducted in respondents’ native languages between January 29 and March 30, 2018.

The research and report are collaborations among Aegon Center for Longevity and Retirement (the Netherlands) and nonprofits Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies (United States) and Instituto de Longevidade MAG (Brazil).