Unretirement and Financial Security: How Reverse Mortgages Can Help When Jobs Are Scarce

According to the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College, the concept of “unretirement” — retirees returning to work — has been a sign of economic vitality. When older workers reenter the labor force, it reflects strong job availability and confidence in the economy. Looking at recent data, the unretirement rate has dropped to 1.9%, far below the pre-pandemic levels of around 3%. This suggests that retirees who want to work are finding fewer opportunities, and thus could signal a cooling labor market. Why Are Retirees Going Back to Work? Many retirees seek employment for two primary reasons: But when job openings shrink, those who need extra income face a dilemma: how to maintain financial stability without returning to work? Enter Reverse Mortgages A reverse mortgage can be a powerful solution for retirees who are struggling to “unretire.” Here’s why: Why This Matters Now With fewer job opportunities for older workers, relying solely on employment to bridge financial gaps may not be realistic. Reverse mortgages offer an alternative that keeps retirees financially secure without the stress of job hunting in a tight labor market. Bottom Line If you are considering unretirement but finding the job market challenging, exploring a reverse mortgage could provide the financial breathing room you need — while enjoying retirement on your terms.