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Robert Atchley (1985) has proposed a model of retirement that includes six phases.
In the preretirement phase, the worker becomes aware that retirement is approaching. In the years prior to retirement, we save our money, dream of thinks we want to do, and generally prepare for this change in life. The honeymoon phase occurs immediately after the actual event and is normally characterized by enjoyment of one's free time. Now the retiree can paint the garage, garden, take a trip, and do everything he or she has wanted to do for years. During the disenchantment phase, the retiree begins to feel depressed about life and the lack of things to do. After the traveling, cleaning, and doing the things most desired, the person gets tired and bored. Often the person then goes through a reorientation phase of developing a more realistic attitude toward effective use of time. Here he or she reevaluates these activities and makes some decisions about what is most important. These priorities then set the stage for the next phase. During the stability phase, the retirement routine is established and enjoyed. Perhaps volunteer work, visiting, or some other routine is developed that keeps the retiree happy and feeling important. The terminal phase (end of retirement) occurs when illness or disability prevents the retiree from actively caring for himself or herself. Also happening more frequently is terminating retirement due to employment. Because we are retiring earlier than we used to, many people are young and healthy enough to get another job, thus terminating retirement, at least temporarily. |
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