Kerstin Wentz, Kristina Gyllensten

(Sahlgrenska Academy and University Hospital, Sweden)

 

 

Abstract: The aim of the study was to examine successful participation in working life in the ages of 69-75 years. A further aim was to elucidate socioeconomic and psychological processes surrounding successful participation. Focus groups were used to collect the data, and seven different focus groups met in four different towns in the western region of Sweden. Each group consisted of five to eight participants, and the groups met two to four times each to allow the participants to develop recollections and reflections on the topic. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. It was found that from middle age onwards the participants transformed their working lives and created their ideal professional situations. This process took place in a context of embracing social support and large psychological resources. These findings suggest structural facilitation of career crafting in work life and working conditions that can reinforce psychological resources such as positive affect and continuous learning throughout one’s working life.

 

 

Key words: older workers; working conditions; career crafting

 

JEL code: J14, J49, J62