Predictors of retirement satisfaction: a path model

Adjustment to retirement among 310 former industrial and service workers in Israel was examined by path analysis. The data indicated that respondents had come to terms with loss of work following retirement, and were enjoying their more relaxed lifestyle. The dominant variables in the path model were retirees' evaluations of and satisfaction with specific aspects of retirement: giving up work, activities with family and friends, rest and tranquility, and free time. Situational, biographical, and behavioral variables, except for educational level and subjective state of health, had a negligible effect on overall satisfaction with retirement.