Retiring Is Good For You!

A major study has revealed that retirement offers several benefits including more exercise, less stress, and great sleep.

16:30 26 August 2015

A new research conducted by a health economist found that retiring from work offer several health benefits. It says that people who stop working get more exercise, less stress, and enjoyed greater sleep. The researcher, Dr Peter Eibich, said that pensioners use their spare time to stay active and healthy.

 

However, Britons who are looking forward to reaping the benefits of retirement will need to wait longer than before as the state pension age will rise in 66 in five years and to 67 by 2028.

 

The study, which will be published in the Journal of Health Economics next month, says that people in retirement are more likely to rate their health as “satisfactory” and their mental health improves.

 

Pensioners, the study adds, get an average of extra 40 minutes sleep per day and about 10per cent of them are more likely to take regular exercise. Retired people also visit their doctors less often.

 

“Taking these factors into account, I find that the number of doctor visits is reduced by 25% for retirees compared to non-retirees of the same age,” said Dr Eibich.

 

“Relief from work-related stress and strain, increased sleep duration as well as more frequent physical exercise seem to be key mechanisms through which retirement affects health,” he states in his paper.

 

“Retirement also increases time invested in repairs and gardening, and household chores. These activities require a physical effort and, can therefore be expected to enhance health by providing physical activity over and above the increase in sports and exercise,” adds Dr Eibich.