Retirees in Madaba Governorate: Causes and Issues of Retirement and ‎Work Experiences Acquired

Bayan Sami Zawaideh; Amal Mohummad Ali El Kharouf

doi:10.35516/Hum.2025.8769

Authors

Bayan Sami Zawaideh Center for Women’s Studies, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan; Foundation Department, Luminus Technical College University, Amman, Jordan. https://orcid.org/0009-0005-2453-4458
Amal Mohummad Ali El Kharouf Center for Women’s Studies, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2813-0942

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35516/Hum.2025.8769

Keywords:

Retirees, retirement reasons, post-retirement challenges, work experiences, Madaba

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the social, economic, and demographic characteristics of retirees in Madaba. It examined their reasons for retirement, the challenges they face post-retirement (including social and economic issues), and their views on leveraging work experiences for community development. Additionally, the study sought to identify statistically significant relationships between retirement reasons, post-retirement challenges, and the desire to work again, with a focus on gender and employment sector variables.

Methods: A rolling sample of 306 retirees from the public, private, and military sectors in Madaba was selected. The study used a descriptive analytical approach, employing both quantitative and qualitative methods. Data was gathered through a questionnaire and interviews with 30 retirees, ten from each sector.

Results: The findings revealed that retirees' social, economic, and demographic characteristics varied across sectors and gender. Common retirement reasons included reaching retirement age, economic or health concerns, institutional factors, and a desire to create space for a new generation. Main challenges faced included feelings of emptiness, lack of recreational activities, rising living costs, reduced income, and limited job opportunities. Many retirees expressed interest in part-time work or support for starting businesses that align with their skills and experience.

Conclusion: The study underscores the need to integrate retirees into the workforce, as this can significantly contribute to community development.

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