Working Late

A dramatic change in the U.S. workforce is taking place as more Americans over 65 are working now than at any time in decades. From 1977 to 2007, their employment more than doubled. And while the number of people 75 and older who are employed is much smaller, this age group saw a big jump in employment as well.

It's not just a reflection of the larger baby boom population reaching retirement age -- this trend is expected to continue. For many Americans the dream of retirement at age 62 or 65 is just that -- a dream. Millions are pushing back their retirement plans and staying in the workforce longer.

In the multi-part weekly series "Working Late," NPR reports on this trend by telling the stories of these Americans. Ina Jaffe, NPR' correspondent on aging, leads the reporting, which airs weekly on Morning Edition on witf FM.

Story Descriptions

Feb. 18 - Ina Jaffe profiles Janet Sims-Wood, a 67-year-old librarian who continues to work part-time after the recession put a dent in her retirement savings.

Feb. 25 - Ina Jaffe introduces us to Fred Risser, an 85-year-old senator from Wisconsin, and the longest serving state lawmaker in the country.

March 4 - Ina Jaffe profiles Dian Sparling. a 71-year-old nurse-midwife from Ft. Collins, Colorado.

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