Retirement Delayed, Older Workers Denied

I have no idea about Robert Samuelson’s age or credentials, but I would guess that he is under 50 (“Don’t Relax Just Yet, Grandpa,” Commentary, July 31). The tone of his commentary implies that all of us over 50 are somehow freeloading if we retire in our so-called golden years. I find that attitude disrespectful and disgraceful to a generation that has had to care not only for itself but also for the generations before and after it as well. It implies that somehow we have not worked enough and now want the government to take care of us in our retirement years.

He calls us “economic dropouts” because we are a more fit generation that, he claims, should work longer. The fact that we are fit doesn’t mean we have to continue working in the “grind.” We have earned the right to enjoy some of the fruits of our labor while we are still fit enough to enjoy them. Samuelson ignores the fact that we contributed to our own retirement with Social Security and Medicare. Those benefits are not given to us.

I am 64 years old. I have had a very happy, healthy and productive life, but it has not always been easy. I am faced with working at least another 10 years before I can even consider retirement. I’m healthy and love my work, but that does not mean I wouldn’t rather be enjoying my grandchildren and pursuing other interests. And if more baby boomers and elder Americans stay in the work force, that eliminates jobs for the younger generation. What will the outcry against older Americans be then? I can only guess!

Juliette Becker

Newport Coast

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Samuelson must be living on another planet, most likely in another galaxy far, far away: “Retirement shouldn’t have to be a sudden shift from full-time work to full-time leisure. People can develop second careers, take part-time jobs or become consultants to their former employers.” You wanna bet? My personal qualifications include a reasonably successful career, an MBA and a Phi Beta Kappa key. But so far, no takers. Numerous former colleagues similarly “want work’s contact and involvement as well as the extra income.” They can’t find it either. If Samuelson cares to start a job placement agency for highly qualified, highly motivated seniors, I will personally guarantee him a substantial and eager clientele.

Arline Chambers

Los Angeles