UnknownAging out of a job is apparently becoming passe’, as more Americans continue to work beyond retirement age. Whether embarking on a new career or sticking with long-held positions, seasoned workers should follow certain strategies to achieve success, career experts advise.

As previously reported, more Americans age 50 and older indicate that they delaying retirement longer than they expected. Some say that they have no plans to retire at all, according to a recent Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs survey. Their reasons vary, from financial setbacks to job satisfaction to a desire to pad their savings.

“People also stay at their jobs because working is good for your health. Mental engagement and social engagement keeps the brain sharper,” said Kerry Hannon, a career transition expert and author of “Great Jobs for Everyone 50+.”  She noted a recent study by the French government that links postponing retirement to a decreased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia.

But career experts stress that workers hoping to put off retirement should actively refresh their skill sets and reflect on what matters most to them.

Hit “Refresh” on Skill Sets

“I think the key point is to really think about the specific job responsibilities that do keep you energized and engaged, because they are going to provide the fuel for the long-term, says Nancy Collamer, career coach, speaker and author of “Second-Act Careers: 50+ Ways to Profit From Your Passions During Semi-Retirement.”

She said every worker can benefit by periodically reflecting on their strengths and talents, which in turn, makes it easier to focus on the most satisfying parts of their job — and improve them.

And one key skill that many older workers miss, or even intentionally avoid, is tech skills.

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by Beth Goodbaum

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