The retirement experiences of women academics: a qualitative, descriptive study

Retirement is now considered a process rather than single event. Pathways to retirement are evolving and the experiences of academics becoming increasingly relevant given aging academic workforce in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) worldwide. Academic studies highlight that most continue work retirement. However, gender tends be overlooked. Based on semi-structured interviews with eleven retired women academics, ranging age from 64 73 years age, who were employed Republic Ireland, this article explores impact their daily lives personal professional relationships. Following thematic analysis, four main themes identified: (i) identity, (ii) freedom retirement, (iii) striving for health wellbeing (iv) value ongoing relationships The majority continued engage meaningful (paid or unpaid) which was central identity following Three senior roles, had long uninterrupted careers strong research track records experienced dissatisfaction mandatory yet able activities Those less activity more likely retire early describe stress fatigue upon health. Together, findings illustrate academic’s pathways heterogeneous. have implications profession, human resource planning professionals.