A study published in the Journal of Population Ageing found that retirees were twice as likely to feel symptoms of depression than those still working, as reported by USA Today.

Part-time jobs are are a fantastic way to stay busy, earn extra money, and do something you love. If you are a retiree looking to get back in the workforce a couple of days a week, we recommend searching for a position with flexible hours that can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Below is our list of the best part-time jobs for retirees.

Waiter 

The role of a waiter is more than simply taking orders, serving food, and handling payments. Equally important is interacting with diners and co-workers. Social isolation is a real danger among senior citizens, especially recent retirees who find themselves alone more than usual. Working in restaurants, whether as a waiter, host, or bartender, is a fantastic way to get out of the house, meet new people, and interact socially. Waiters must also be knowledgeable about the menu so they can answer any questions that diners may have. Keeping up with seasonal changes, wine pairings, and specials helps keep your mind engaged and sharp. We recommend testing your hand in the restaurant industry if you are looking for part-time work in retirement. 

Nanny

Nannies are not just caregivers. They are also teachers, friends, and sometimes even surrogate parents. They act as a support system for children seeking guidance, love, and education. For retired teachers and nurses, part-time nanny work is a wonderful way to earn a little extra income while doing something you love. Nannies make anywhere between $18-$21/hour, depending on the state you work.  Not bad wages for part-time work!

Truck Driver

The trucking industry is at a crossroads. On the one hand, truck drivers are in high demand due to the rapidly growing shipping and freight industries. On the other hand, fewer people in their 30’s and 40’s are becoming truck drivers because they prefer careers where they can be closer to family and friends. Consequently, there exists a huge opportunity for retirees to become truck drivers. The trucking industry is filled with part-time jobs, from regional driving positions to cross-country routes. Furthermore, truck driver wages are rising, which means extra spending cash for all of your retirement fun and adventures!

Real Estate Agent

One of the perks of being a part-time real estate agent is setting your own schedule. This means working around your hobbies and family life, which is important in retirement. Additionally, successful realtors have higher earning potential than other professions. Real estate agents are valued for their negotiation skills and ability to network, providing a true sense of purpose. Real estate is the perfect industry for seniors looking to get out of the house and stay connected in the business world. 

Lyft or Uber Driver

Uber and Lyft are transportation companies that connect drivers with riders. Rather than calling a taxi, you can download an app on your phone and quickly access drivers in your area. For retirees looking to make a little extra money while also setting their own schedule, becoming a driver is a great part-time job.  Uber and Lyft drivers can also earn higher wages than taxi drivers because there are aggressive bonuses based on the number of rides per day and other driving goals. 

Pet Sitter

Would you like to make money for simply watching other people’s pets? Companies like Wag and Rover connect sitters with pet owners. Pet sitting is an excellent part-time job for animal-loving retirees. Not only do you watch pets in the comfort of your own home, but you also get to choose which pets you sit for. There is a rating system on both pets, which means you know what you’re getting into before agreeing to watch someone else’s cat or dog. 

Golf Course Starter

If you enjoy being on the links as much as possible, consider becoming a part-time starter. The job is relatively simple and requires little training. The primary responsibility is checking tee times and making sure golfers stay on schedule. The main perk is you get to be on the course for hours at a time while getting a healthy dose of vitamin-b and chatting with golfers as they tee off.  You can advise them on their swing speed or course secrets to shave a few strokes off their round. There is nothing quite like the smell of a freshly cut fairway!

Conclusion

As reported by Experian, the average age of retirement is 62 years old. Consequently, the last third of life will be spent in retirement for most of us. However, we often find ourselves like a boat without an oar, drifting through retirement without direction. Lack of structure, social isolation, and a fixed income can result in unexpected depression. A clever solution is to reenter the workforce. We hope the job suggestions above give you a good starting point if you want to work part-time. 

If you or someone you know requires assisted living in New Orleans, please contact us today to learn more about our residential care homes.