A recent nationwide survey conducted by the AARP of 2,001 workers, between the ages of 50 and 70 years old found that many workers plan to continue working well beyond the customary retirement age of 65.

Findings reveal that most workers still adhere to the traditional image of retirement, such as spending more time with loved ones and receiving pension and Social Security benefits. It was also uncovered that the majority of respondents said that their personal definition of retirement includes some form of work. Areas of interest revealed in the report included teaching, retail sales, health care and office support positions.

The majority of the respondents reported that their own definition of retirement included some form of work and just over half (53%) stated that their definition of retirement included working for enjoyment, not money. Staying "mentally and physically" active and remaining "productive or useful" also topped the list for staying on the job longer.

When respondents were required to select only one major factor in their decision to work, it became clear that the need for money was a primary motivator. Specifically, when asked to choose only one major influence in their decision to continue to work, both pre-retirees and working retirees were more likely to cite the need for money than any other factor.

You may view the results of the entire report.