GROUPS 4 RETIREMENT

This program of research has adapted the Groups 4 Health program for the retirement context to help retirees better manage the process of exiting the workplace at the end of their careers. Our research shows that social connectedness is central to health and wellbeing. People who are more socially connected are not only healthier and happier, but they also cope far better with major life changes, like retirement. So building and sustaining meaningful social connection is key to retirement adjustment.   

Early studies show that participation in this new program, Groups 4 Retirement, helps people through the process of making social (not just financial) plans for retirement in ways that have a positive impact on their adjustment after retirement — notably in improving their sense of preparedness for retirement, and wellbeing.

We have also developed a workshop that introduces people who are going through (or about to go through) retirement to key elements of the program and have successfully delivered this to employees from a range of industries around Australia. We are currently seeking industry partner funding to support further testing and roll-out of the program with a view to being able to deliver the program at scale. Please contact a.haslam@uq.edu.au for further details.