5 Fun Job Possibilities for Seniors (Or Any Age!)

It's a fact of life: no matter what stage of life you are in, you know someone who is 65 years of age or older. However, 65 is the new 50 (or younger!), and our senior citizens are living longer, more productive, healthier lives. When it comes to a vocation, many adults who are 65 years young find themselves with a desire to keep their brains and bodies in-shape, but the 9-5 grind may be too much. As a young person, I've watched my parents' friends struggle with the decision of what to do post-retirement and have made a few mental notes for myself! Here are a few ideas I've seen in action that have been effective:

Consulting.
By age 65, adults will have 40-45 years of experience in their industry, and both the senior citizen and society at large would benefit from their knowledge. As an example, a group of ex-NASA scientists I know helped put Neil Armstrong on the moon, and in their golden years have banded together once again to consult on projects that specifically target the private aerospace industry. Their combined knowledge is nearly 300 years' worth! The internet will help senior citizens stay in touch and band together (if desired) or a simple internet search could yield that perfect consulting job that will allow them to make their own hours and still keep their minds and bodies active. For more information on consulting jobs, seek out companies that employ consultants (Accenture, for example). Also, do an internet search like "(industry) consultant (job)" and visit sites like Retired Brains. Staying in touch with your local chamber of commerce would be helpful too, and the government is always looking to hire consultants.

Go Back to School.
College isn't just for the 20-something set anymore! More and more senior citizens are attending college classes, whether for self-enrichment (learn a language) or to learn a new vocation. Retirees might also consider obtaining an associate's degree in something like cuisine from an art or culinary institute. Don't be shy about going back to college. At a friend's graduation just a few weeks ago, the oldest graduate of this particular college was in his mid-70s and he obtained a master's degree. He got a standing ovation from the audience!

Start Your Own Business.
It's never too late to start a business and with the help of the internet, this is easier than ever! Maybe it's time for a retiree to turn a passion in to a money-maker. Starting a business can encompass any industry from A-Z and will make the retirement years fun and interesting. Lots of resources are available online, from the beginnings of a business plan to how to set up a website. Check out the US Government's Small Business website for some tips and how-to's for any age: http://www.sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner/index.html. Be sure to check in with your city's small business association also; many offer free tools and seminars sponsored by a University or other group to get started.

Volunteer.
Some volunteer gigs provide a stipend or hourly wage, but most do not. For those older adults who are really interested in volunteering, check out Senior Corps, a US-based service organization that acts much like the Peace Corps. Senior Corps matches seniors to volunteer opportunities, some of which may be in or not too far away from their own communities. You can also check with local charities in your area of interest. With a depressed economy, many organizations are looking for free or discounted help!

Travel.
While traveling is considered a luxury for most of the younger set, traveling for seniors may be an ideal way to share their experiences and have fun along the way! If an older adult is particularly familiar with a city or item of interest, they may be able to act as a consultant with a travel company. On the other hand, maybe a senior citizen or senior couple is interested in being away from home. If so, they might enjoy working on a cruise ship or perhaps helping to lead international tours. Another option that might not be paid would be to be a travel consultant for a magazine or keep a travel blog. It is also possible to sell photographs online to sites like istockphoto.com.

Regardless of what you or your favorite senior decide to do for a job, the most important thing is to remember to do what is most fun. Use free and local resources (the internet, your SBA office, local universities) to maximize your potential jobs, and keep your mind open to new possibilities!

Resources:
www.retiredbrains.com
http://www.sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner/index.html
http://www.seniorcorps.gov/
www.istockphoto.com