Retirement is increasingly understood not as a single, permanent exit from the labour market but as a series of transitions between full‑time work, part‑time roles, and unpaid contributions. Although employment rates among older adults have risen over the past two decades, little is known about how their postretirement plans align with the opportunities they access. Many who leave work for caregiving express a desire to remain employed, yet re‑entry becomes more difficult the longer they are out of the labour force. In a context like Hong Kong—where no statutory retirement age exists and employment decisions are largely employer‑driven—access to postretirement work depends not only on individual preferences but also on employers’ willingness to hire older adults. This cumulative disadvantage restricts paid work opportunities in later life. Understanding how employers’ perspectives shape real opportunities is essential for designing policies that ensure equitable and accessible employment for older adults.
Dr. TANG, Mun Yu Vera