# Increasing trend of retirees returning to work

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/increasing-trend-of-retirees-returning-to-work
> Updated: 2026-08-21T21:33:00.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

There is a growing trend of retirees, often called ‘unretirees,’ returning to or continuing in the workforce. In Germany, data from the Federal Statistical Office shows that 14 percent of people aged 65 to 74 worked alongside their pension last year, an increase from 13 percent the previous year. Ulrike Mohrs of the Federal Employment Agency noted that motivations include financial necessity, social relevance, and quality of life.

This shift is also observed in other regions, where individuals in their 50s and 60s are pivoting from established careers into new roles such as teaching, nonprofit leadership, or entrepreneurship. Research from Standard Life indicates one in six retirees have returned to work or are considering it, while Department for Work and Pensions figures show the proportion of people over 65 with employment earnings rose to 16 percent in 2025.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-21: Unretirees: The growing trend of returning to work

A rising number of ‘unretirees’ are returning to the workforce, driven by a desire for purpose or shifting economic realities, with more people over 65 seeking employment.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/unretirees-the-growing-trend-of-returning-to-work

### 2026-08-17: Ulrike Mohrs notes rising trend of retirees continuing to work

Ulrike Mohrs, head of the regional Federal Employment Agency, notes an increase in retirees working due to financial needs and personal fulfillment.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ulrike-mohrs-notes-rising-trend-of-retirees-continuing-to-work

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Cite as: Increasing trend of retirees returning to work. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/increasing-trend-of-retirees-returning-to-work