I am approaching 81 — I will attain that milestone this coming June. One of the comments I hear most frequently is, “You’re STILL working?” This is usually followed by, “When are you going to quit?” My answer is still vague because I just don’t know.
What do I do? I teach one or two classes a year at Community College of Philadelphia and work September to May as a field supervisor for student teachers attending the TEP program at the University of Pennsylvania. I’ll admit that arising at zero dark thirty to get to an eight AM observation is no picnic, especially in the winter. On the other hand, once I get into the school (I am presently at Boys’ Latin, a very interesting charter and my alma mater, The Philadelphia High School for Girls), I am as happy as the proverbial pig wallowing in that nasty stuff. That’s pretty much the way it was when I worked full-time. I hated meetings, records, and the administration, and I have never liked getting up and out, but once I closed the door to my room and “got with” the kids, it was A-OK.
I use a cane now, and walking more than a few blocks is a chore, but I still love being with young folks and putting my two cents into their education. I guess I’ll quit when the stress of getting there outweighs the joy. Incidentally, the extra money doesn’t hurt either.
That’s when you should quit; when it’s no longer an enriching and pleasurable part of your life!
ElderChicks 
Yes, I agree. When it’s no longer a joy, it’s time to quit. But by that time another joy may materialize. I too work part time coaching (currently only 2 clients, but would take 3 more), and pet sit for certain clients about once a month. It’s good to have the money, but the pleasure is worth more! I’m 72–3, and figure I’ll be good to do either for at least another 10 years if I want it.
I’m 83 and have evolved into a freelance writer after many years as owner of a successful pr firm. Wouldn’t quit for the world! Are you kidding? It keeps me young and active. Nothing more boring than losing touch with the outside world. . when I’m not at my computer writing websites and brochures for clients, I’m volunteering as a tram guide at Fairchild Tro9pical Botanic Garden and reading to the blind on public radio. Stay busy and enjoy life. . .and most of allo, stay healthy.
I do like your zest for working as long as you can. My philosophy is similar – “While I can, I will….when I can’t, I won’t, but I’ll be glad that I did when I could.”
Mary, I feel better already, knowing that some of today’s young teachers are benefitting from your experience and that teens are learning English our teachers imparted at Girls’ High long ago.
Love the hat!
Hey I want to be you!! I’m 63 and looking to work, be involved, volunteer and make a difference!!
Hi Mary, you are so right, no reason to give up something you love to do. I am a LCSW with a private practice, age 76 who loves my work; I have cut back to a 4 day week, but continue to so what I love and do well the other days. Be well, and keep yourself well by doing what gives you pleasure!
I’m like you in that I loved the students of my teaching days. But I retired early due to health concerns and now at 71 am enjoying every day. There is so much to do and learn yet that my days, even though at a slower pace, are full and rewarding. Now I must get back to class readings for tomorrow–Adam Smith’s Wealth of Nations and Hamlet (adult ed noncredit courses)!