Work after retirement affects elderly mental health and behaviors in Addis Ababa

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the impact of being without a job post-retirement on mental health (depression, life satisfaction) and behaviors (alcohol and cigarette). A cross-sectional study was conducted on 330 Ethiopians aged 60–69. Compared to workers, retirees without a job reported higher depression, lower life satisfaction, and hazardous drinking (d =.49,.39 and φ =.65, respectively). Hierarchical multiple regression analyses indicated that being without a job post-retirement was associated with depression and life dissatisfaction. Thus, greater emphasis has to be given to improve the mental health and behaviors of retired elderly.