Proven: retirement is bad for your health

The dream of retiring may seem incredible to most people, while others simply can't stand the thought of having nothing to do. Who knows, this second group is right, at least that's what a study released last week proves.

According to data from the London Institute of Economics Affairs (IEA), retirement leads to a "drastic decline in health" over the medium to long term. According to the study, people should work longer for health reasons beyond finances.

The research was done in conjunction with Age Endeavor Fellowship, focusing on the relationship between economic activity, health and public health policies in Britain. Scientists compared information from retirees to people who, even after their minimum retirement age, chose to continue working.

The results are astonishing: soon after retirement, a slight improvement in health can be observed, but in the long run, retirement represents a significant decline in the body of individuals.

In addition, retirement can increase the chances of individuals developing depression by up to 40%, and increase the possibility of physical illness by up to 60%, putting physical and mental health at risk.

Philip Booth, IEA Director, "Working harder will not only be an economic necessity, but will also help people live healthier lives." Edward Datnow, president of Age Endeavor Fellowship, adds, "There should be no 'normal' retirement age in the future."

According to the BBC, Britain's government is already planning to raise the minimum retirement age, which is set at 65 for men and 60 for women. The movement has already taken place in France, with a gradual increase that is expected to reach the target by 2018.