Over-65 workforce doubles to 10pc in just two decades

THE number of people aged over 65 who are in work has doubled in the past two decades, official figures show.

Data released yesterday also shows that a record 9.9million people aged 50 and over are still working.

The total is 3.9million more than 20 years ago, while the unemployment rate for the age group is 2.9 per cent, down from 3.1 per cent last year.

The employment rate of people aged 65 and over has doubled from 5 per cent to 10 per cent in 20 years, the Department for Work and Pensions said.

Meanwhile, the average man now retires at 65.1 years old, which has increased by almost two years since 1997.

Women typically leave work at 63.6 years old – three years more than in 1997. The number of women in their late 50s still in work has risen the most of any group – more than 70 per cent, compared to just over half in 1997.

Damian Hinds, employment minister, said: “Staying in work for longer is not only better for our physical and mental well-being, but also means more money in people’s pockets.”