Social Stratification of Retirement Transition

Abstract

Abstract This chapter considers the central role retirement plays in social stratification structures in later life. Retirement transition is embedded in social structures and affects an individual’s post-retirement position. In recent decades, retirement has departed from a traditional model of a clear-cut event and a static life period toward a more varied, dynamic, and unpredictable process. At the same time, public policies push to extend working lives but often ignore individual differences in the ability to work longer. These processes carry a risk of increasing inequalities at older ages. This chapter discusses theoretical approaches to social stratification at older ages, the diversification of retirement pathways, and the impact of aging policies on stratification. It argues that the stratificational role of retirement is increasing, and unified reforms can stimulate the development of inequalities and exclusions.