ResumeTemplates.com, the leading platform for free professional resume templates and examples, has released new findings from a January 2025 survey examining the work and retirement plans of older Americans. The survey of 1,000 U.S. residents aged 65 and older reveals that one in four seniors are still working, with a growing number planning to return to the workforce this year.
Among working seniors, 22% have “unretired,” returning to work after leaving the workforce. Additionally, 6% of retirees plan to return in 2025. Cost-of-living increases remain a primary motivator, with 51% of retirees considering a return to work due to rising expenses. Additionally, 36% cite boredom as a factor, while 29% need additional income to cover debt.
Seniors who have never retired report enjoying their jobs (61%) and fearing boredom in retirement (42%) as their top reasons for staying in the workforce. Most employed seniors work part-time (11%), while another 11% remain in full-time roles. Younger seniors, particularly those aged 65 to 70, are the most likely to continue working.
“One thing seniors returning to or still in the workforce need to be aware of is age discrimination,” says Julia Toothacre, chief career strategist at ResumeTemplates. “If you’re currently employed, you might find yourself in situations where someone is trying to push you out. If you’re returning to the workforce, you’ll find it difficult in some functions and industries because hiring managers believe you’ll cost more and might be less efficient. These judgments won’t apply to everyone, but people need to be aware of them.”
To navigate these challenges, Toothacre advises older job seekers to avoid listing degree dates on resumes, limit work history to the past 10 to 15 years, and seek positions that value experience, such as consulting, coaching, and nonprofit work.
