19 Stress-Free Jobs to Keep Seniors Active After Retirement

Working after retirement is a great way to stay active, meet new people, and add extra money to your bank account. But that doesn't mean you should continue to work 40-hour weeks like you might have used to. You'll want a low-stress opportunity with plenty of freedom, flexibility, and most importantly, is something that you enjoy doing.

Check out our list of 19 fulfilling and relaxing job options after retirement

• 1. A travel agent

If you love to travel, use your knowledge and experiences to recommend amazing places to others. As a travel agent, you can earn commissions from recommending places, booking tickets, and organizing an itinerary for individuals. Who knows - maybe you'll even discover your next vacation destination through this post-retirement gig.

• 2. A librarians

Try working in a library for a stress-free, part-time position. If books are your passion, you'll connect with fellow book lovers and swap recommendations for great reads.

• 3. An online tutor

Retirees who have previous experience working in education might enjoy a tutoring job. Being an online tutor allows you to share your knowledge of your favorite subjects with others from the comfort of your own home.

• 4. A babysitter

Whether it's your own grandkids or children in your neighborhood, babysitting a few times each week can keep you on your toes and keep you active.

• 5. Flip furniture

If you're a DIY guru, flipping furniture is a great post-retirement side job. You'll just need a decent-sized workspace, such as your garage, and some tools. Then, find some pieces at discount shops and garage sales that need a little loving, and transform them into your own unique design. This job will allow you to bring out your creative side while earning a little extra cash.

• 6. A tour guide

If you live in a city that has many tourist attractions or museums, you might enjoy becoming a tour guide. You'll have the opportunity to interact with people traveling to your city while sharing your favorite sites and attractions. Plus, you can choose the type of tours you'd like to do. Whether it's historic tours through a museum or a haunted tour of the city, there are plenty of opportunities available, both paid and volunteer.

• 7. Craft shop employee

If you're an artist who loves to spend your free time designing a masterpiece, a part-time job in a craft shop might be for you. As a craft shop employee, you'll be one of the first people to discover the store's newest supplies - plus, you'll likely receive a discount. This job is also a good option for someone who's looking for something low-key and stress-free.

• 8. Fill out surveys

Some companies care about your opinion so much, they'll pay you to share your thoughts. Participating in focus groups or filling out paid surveys can be a great way to earn extra money. Plus, it's easy to work around your schedule. Your payment will depend on the company and how many surveys you complete.

• 9. A substitute teacher

Help students expand their knowledge by becoming a substitute teacher. As a substitute, you can teach a variety of classes, from gym to food science or English. It's a great way to keep your mind sharp and connect with students while you teach subjects you're passionate about.

• 10. A retail worker

Working in retail is a great option if you're looking for a way to stay active and interact with others. In a retail store, you'll likely spend your shift organizing products, helping customers, or unboxing new materials. Many retail stores offer flexible scheduling so you can choose what days and hours you'd like to work. If you're looking to work in retail, make sure to choose a place that interests you, whether it's the products or people working there.

• 11. A cleaner

If you like to tidy up, you might find enjoyment in cleaning other people's houses after retirement. Cleaning other people's homes can be satisfying and rewarding, knowing you're helping others live in a more comfortable, polished environment. Plus, cleaning homes is a great way to stay on your feet and get your body moving.

• 12. A gardener

Turn a hobby into a source of income and become a gardener in your free time. There are many benefits to gardening, from planting fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, to spending time in the sun and fresh air. Plus, you can even earn money planting and weeding for others in your local area. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities in community gardens, too.

• 13. An event coordinator

Do you love to plan a good party? Are you super organized and detail-oriented? Event coordination could be a great fit for you. As an event coordinator, you can help plan, set up, and witness monumental moments in your client's lives. From birthday parties to weddings and bridal celebrations, seeing your clients happy is incredibly fulfilling.

• 14. A writer

If you want to stay at home and work flexible hours, freelance writing and editing could be an option. As a freelance writer, you can choose what hours you'd like to work and choose from a variety of different writing opportunities. You might find people needing help with their landing pages, product descriptions, or writing blogs. The possibilities and freedom of writing are truly endless.

• 15. Sports team coach

Calling all sports fanatics - get ready to share your skills and knowledge with the next generation of athletes. As a coach, there's nothing better than watching your team succeed after all the hard work they put in at practice. Plus, coaching only requires a season of work, and if you have a buddy who enjoys coaching, too, maybe you can do it together. Consider volunteering to lead a Little League team, or put together an adults team with people from the neighborhood.

• 16. Create a unique product

Tap into your creative side and create a business selling homemade products. From soothing scented candles to large canvases or handmade jewelry, there are plenty of realms you can explore. Best of all, you don't need a store to sell these products. Instead, you can create a presence online and do everything from the comfort of your home.

• 17. A dog walker

If you love spending time with animals, you might want to consider becoming a dog walker. As a walker, you get to enjoy fresh air and exercise, plus the company of an excellent companion or two.

• 18. A pet sitter

If walking dogs doesn't allow you enough time to spend with furry friends, you can apply to become a pet sitter, too. Some pet-sitting jobs may involve a feeding or two throughout the day, whereas others can extend into overnight visits. Whichever you choose, pet sitting is a great option to earn extra money while working flexible hours.

• 19. A driver

If you enjoy being behind the wheel, there are plenty of opportunities for you as a driver. If you opt to drive on behalf of an app like Uber or Lyft, you can choose your own hours and what type of driving you'd like to do. Whether you're delivering food or driving people to their destinations, this gig allows you to choose your own adventure.

Why do some older adults work after retirement?

There's a variety of reasons why some older adults might find enjoyment in working after they retire. Some of these reasons include:

• To stay active. Staying active is good for you mentally and physically. A part-time job can be just the right amount of activity to keep your body moving and keep your mind sharp.

• To have a little extra money. Some older adults may continue to work after retiring to supplement their savings and Social Security.

• To meet people. Working is a great way to get to know other people. Many older adults continue working after retirement to stay connected with their community.

How many older adults work after retirement?

In 2023, nearly 19% of Americans ages 65 and older participated in the workforce. That's nearly one in five individuals in this age range. The number of people above 75 participating in the workforce is expected to increase by 96.5% by 2030.

Save time doing the things you love - leave cooking to Meal Village

Whether you spend dinner volunteering at a soup kitchen or work each morning tending to the neighborhood garden, retirement is for enjoying your golden years. If you've never been fond of cooking - or would rather spend your time working or volunteering - Meal Village can help.

Meal Village offers more than 130 ready-to-eat healthy meal options that require no prepping or cooking on your part. We deliver directly to your door (or work) - all you have to do is heat and eat. Order online or by phone to get delicious meals delivered right to you.