Association between working after retirement age and lower depressive symptoms among Korean older adults

The global older adult population is growing rapidly, with over 14 % of South Korea's population being aged ≥60 years. This trend is expected to increase societal and economic burdens. Employing older adults can mitigate labor shortages, improve health, and reduce depressive symptoms. However, limited research has investigated the correlation between working status and depression in older Korean individuals.

Data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging, including 8142 participants aged ≥60 years, were analyzed. Employment status and depressive symptoms were assessed using structured questionnaires and the 10-item Center of Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale. A Generalized Estimating Equation model was used to evaluate the relationship between work status and depressive symptoms over a 2-year interval, after adjusting for sociodemographic and health-related factors.

Continued employment was associated with fewer depressive symptoms (odds ratio: 0.63, 95 % confidence interval: 0.58-0.67). This association was stronger among participants with lower levels of education, lower income, and male sex. Both "non-working → working" and "working → working" transitions correlated with reduced depressive symptoms, particularly among pre-baby boomers. Baby boomers in the "working → working" group exhibited reduced symptoms. Employment status had a significant impact on depression compared with working hours.

Our findings indicate that paid work enhances psychological well-being through social interactions and activities. Employment at aged ≥60 years is crucial for improving mental health and addressing socioeconomic challenges in Korea's aging society. Developing interventions to support post-retirement employment can enhance mental health and extend a healthy working life expectancy.