Conditions of existence and subjective perceptions of retirement: quantitative evidence from France

Abstract

This article explores subjective perceptions of retirement in France, using original quantitative data on the customers of a not-for-profit insurance company. The sample contains individuals aged 40–84, who are either in the labour force (N = 923) or retired (N = 705). Perceptions of retirement are measured using closed questions on views of the retirement transition (these views can be positive, negative or neutral) and definitions of retirement (retirement can be interpreted as a period of freedom, boredom, greater risk of precariousness, etc.). Using a number of different social indicators, we examine whether differences in social conditions translate into heterogeneous perceptions. We also investigate whether social differences in perceptions fade away with increasing age. Both working-age individuals and retirees generally have a positive view of the retirement transition and often define retirement as a period of freedom. Perceptions of retirement are shaped by social conditions: a higher level of education and income, greater wealth, better health and stronger social involvement go hand in hand with rosier perceptions. Moreover, we uncover a strengthening of this social gradient with increasing age. Finally, perceptions are positively correlated with satisfaction in various domains, for retirees.

Ageing Societies are a Triumph

“…It is, however, recognised that the normative perception of retirement in France is one of a social right for workers, a view widely, shared by all ages, that transitioning to retirement in ones early 60s is appropriate. As a result, French retirees are more likely to report that regaining freedom and control, experiencing a lower level of stress and responsibilities, and engaging in social activities significantly contribute to satisfaction (Apouey, 2022). Of interest in this study, there was no significant difference in the idea of retirement as a period of freedom between different socioeconomic groups.…”

“…It may thus be the case that it is not so much French distinctiveness that is leading to such negative perceptions of late life work, and thus positive views on the freedom retirement brings, but ageist practices in general across most European countries. Indeed, as Apouey (2022) points out, in the Fouquereau et al (2005) study, British retirees had the same view of retirement and late life work as the French.…”

“…Similarly, French research has suggested that older people's working conditions have deteriorated over recent decades, (Khireddine-Medouni et al, 2016), with negative perceptions in the work place also increasing (Aouici, 2016). It has been argued that these factors have generated feelings of stress, job dissatisfaction, and burden in the workplace for older workers, contrasting with feelings of freedom and satisfaction in retirement (Apouey, 2022). It may thus be the case that it is not so much French distinctiveness that is leading to such negative perceptions of late life work, and thus positive views on the freedom retirement brings, but ageist practices in general across most European countries.…”