How old is too old to work? It used to be easier to answer this question. Prior to 1900, you worked until you could no longer work. The social security act changed things. In 1935, older workers could draw benefits and retire at 65. When I reached the age of 65 and much to my surprise, I was often asked when I was going to retire. I have no plan as retirement is a process that unfolds over many years. Age is not the critical factor in the decision to quit working.

The question of being too old to work is not answered based on chronological age. Rather it is answered based on financial resources, desired life style, need for engagement in challenges, and functional (physical and mental) abilities. I had several clients doing well into their 80s and beyond. One was still CEO of his company at 90. One accountant was still successfully working full time at 82. Finally, there was the bowler at over 100.

Work enhances economic security and well being. Some argue that work improves brain health but the issue is complicated in that those with better brain health may be able to successfully work longer. Work provides many with the need for engaging intellectual and social needs. Work adds a sense of accomplishment and achievement. Older workers do a good job of adapting to the normal physical and mental changes of aging. Many older workers have greater institutional knowledge and problem-solving experience than younger workers.

Rather than to assume that older clients should retire, consider helping those who desire to continue to work. Chronological age matters little. What matters is functional capacity to do and enjoy the job.

The 82 year old accountant I mentioned above, along with his wife, noted “minor” changes in memory. He was also taking inordinately long to do the books – but still very competent. We completed a memory evaluation and he was diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment. We put together a plan that allowed him to retire from work on his own terms before he began making mistakes and was forced to retire. We also worked on a plan for adding activities that filled the hole left by retiring.

As we age on the job we need to attend to physical health. Most workers have annual physicals and many work places have wellness programs that may be particularly helpful to the older worker. We also need to routinely have our memory and cognitive skills (as part of corporate wellness programs?) evaluated as we continue in the workforce. This may be especially important for professionals who serve others. Don’t take your mental skills for granted. Be sure your memory is still serving you and/or your clients well as you work into your 70s, 80s, and beyond.