There is little knowledge of the current level of engagement in productivity occupations by older adults in the United Kingdom. The aim of this study, therefore, was to explore the current productivity occupations of adults over 60 years who consider themselves to be healthy and the
motivations that underpin those occupations. Structured
interviews were conducted with 70 adults with a mean age
of 72. Content analysis was used to explain productivity,
occupational choices and motivators. The participants
identified five roles and occupations they considered to be
work: home-maker, volunteer, carer, paid employee and
student, with most holding a home-maker role. Altruism
and pleasure were reported as the most important
motivators for engaging in productivity occupations.
Further research is required to explore the possible link
between pre-retirement work roles and the productivity
choices made in later life