Research by retirement specialist Just Group among retired over-55s found nearly one in three men (32%) had the financial foundation to leave work early compared to one in six (16%) women.
Poor health was responsible for 37% of women retiring earlier than they had expected, compared to 29% of men. Women were three times as likely to have stopped work early to provide care (14%) than men (4%).
But 17% of men said they had left work early due to losing a job and not being able to find another, significantly higher than the 12% of women.
Stephen Lowe, group communications director at Just Group, said: The figures are a reminder that many
people don’t have the luxury of choosing their retirement date, particularly in times of economic turmoil.
“Government figures show four times more women than men aged 65+ have left the workforce since the coronavirus lockdowns began last March,” he said2. “Those forced out of work must make careful choices because they are less likely to have the strong financial foundation needed to last through retirement.”
He said it was important those considering using pension money took up their entitlement to free, independent and impartial Pension Wise guidance and looked at options such as State Benefits which might be available as an alternative.
“The coronavirus pandemic is likely to have encouraged some to delay retirement and others to bring it forward,” he said. “Whatever people do, it is important they avoid a knee-jerk reaction but take the time to consider their options and make an informed decision.”
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