- Dr Simon McCabe is head of the Healthy Work Research Unit at Aston University
- He has appeared on the latest episode of The Healthy Work Podcast
- He says retirement isn't what many expect, especially when you’ve spent your whole life working.
A senior lecturer in behavioural science at Aston University has highlighted the evolving perceptions of work, retirement and existential concerns across generations.
Dr Simon McCabe, head of the Healthy Work Research Unit at Aston University, looks into the impact of generational experiences on how people approach retirement and meaningful work in the latest episode of The Healthy Work Podcast.
This episode, Existential Concerns and the Future of Work, sheds light on how different generations are grappling with profound shifts in the modern workplace. The episode taps into recent research from the Healthy Work Research Unit and explores how older workers can be encouraged back into the workforce by reframing job roles to focus on generativity and mentorship.
Dr McCabe explains how younger generations, shaped by economic challenges and global crises like COVID-19, are prioritising meaningful, purpose-driven careers over traditional employment paths, while older generations face existential challenges when leaving the workforce.
Dr McCabe said:
“Retirement isn't what many expect, especially when you’ve spent your whole life working.
“Losing that structure can lead to significant mental and physical health challenges, but the generational gap is clear. Younger people today aren’t as driven by money - they’re looking for purpose.
“Millennials and Gen Z are more likely to pursue careers in sustainability and social impact roles, reflecting a shift away from the traditional career paths of older generations.
“We found retirees often face social isolation and a loss of identity, with an emphasis on the gender differences in adjusting to post-work life. Older workers are increasingly interested in roles that allow them to pass on their expertise and leave a legacy, rather than simply seeking material rewards.”
Tune into The Healthy Work Podcast to hear more about how existential psychology can help explain the growing divide between generational approaches to work and retirement.
Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.
For more information, visit the Healthy Work Research Unit.
- Notes to Editors
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About Aston University
For over a century, Aston University’s enduring purpose has been to make our world a better place through education, research and innovation, by enabling our students to succeed in work and life, and by supporting our communities to thrive economically, socially and culturally.
Aston University’s history has been intertwined with the history of Birmingham, a remarkable city that once was the heartland of the Industrial Revolution and the manufacturing powerhouse of the world.
Born out of the First Industrial Revolution, Aston University has a proud and distinct heritage dating back to our formation as the School of Metallurgy in 1875, the first UK College of Technology in 1951, gaining university status by Royal Charter in 1966, and becoming The Guardian University of the Year in 2020.
Building on our outstanding past, we are now defining our place and role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (and beyond) within a rapidly changing world.
For media inquiries in relation to this release, contact Sam Cook, Press and Communications Manager, on (+44) 7446 910063 or email: s.cook2@aston.ac.uk
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