Home-Based Business – Great for Those Looking for Post-Retirement Work

By the time you reach age 50, you possess an abundance of workplace experience and expertise. Many are looking for something fresh and are considering a second career instead of retiring. The options are endless.
Updated: November 24th, 2023
LTC News Contributor Mitchell Abbott

Contributor

Mitchell Abbott

The average retirement continues to increase. More people, after age 50, start looking at a second career instead of seeking traditional retirement. There are many options available for those who wish to keep working into the classic "retirement" years.  

Seniors looking forward to starting new projects and pursuing their hobbies during retirement might want to consider starting a home-based business. A home-based business will allow you to make your interests profitable while staying active and maintaining social connections. 

To legally establish your business, you might be considering using LegalZoom for its simplicity and reputation. However, there are also other equally efficient options available. Consider checking this comprehensive list of LegalZoom competitors for more information. It provides a detailed comparison, potentially introducing you to other service providers you might find more fitting for your business needs.

Whether you are concerned about making ends meet post-retirement, covering the cost of future long-term care, or aren't enthusiastic about a life without goals and projects, now would be a good time to start researching home businesses and seeing if one is right for you.

Hefty Investment Usually Not Required

Even if you don't have a lot of capital to start with, there are many options available for home businesses that can provide a good return with little investment. Depending on your experience, you could offer your services virtually as a copywriter, proofreader, bookkeeper, or life coach.

In-person businesses that don't come with many upfront costs include selling baked goods or floral arrangements or offering your services as a photographer. If you have a larger home with additional rooms or a finished basement, consider using it as a short-term rental space through Airbnb. 

For retirees who are gifted in the arts or proficient invaluable life skills, look into creating online classes that can be marketed through various learning platforms. Pet-sitting or dog-walking might be a great way to make money while staying active — plus, many seniors find spending time with animals to be therapeutic.

Work Options Available for Those with Mobility Issues

Seniors facing mobility challenges can still look forward to running a successful business at home. Home businesses that could work well for less physically mobile seniors include editing, data entry, and medical transcription. 

If you cannot be physically active or do any heavy lifting, you can start a business crafting and selling artisanal products. However, you may want to consider bringing in a part-time assistant to help with packaging, storage, and mailing. If you are one of many seniors residing in a multi-generational home, see if some of your younger family members might be willing to help you out.

Never Too Late to Learn New Skills

If some of the above ideas catch your interest, but you feel you are unqualified, don't rule out the possibility of training for a new home-based career. You can learn valuable IT skills through remote learning programs without even having to leave your house. Colleges in every state offer discounts for retirees interested in pursuing education in a new subject or training for a new career — and some will even cover the cost of learning materials and added fees.

Even if you plan on basing your new home business off your existing skillset, going back to school for business management is a good idea. With an MBA, you are better equipped to strategize and manage a new business. If there are no easily accessible colleges or universities near you, look for online programs. Many seniors may find pursuing an MBA rewarding on a personal level, as well, as this can help develop valuable leadership skills and acquire greater self-knowledge.

Health Benefits of Running Home-Based Businesses

Staying active and pursuing goals is important for seniors to maintain a high quality of life and a confident outlook. Running a home-based business where you can use your existing skills and acquire new ones is a great way to do this. 

Keeping active, both physically and mentally, is always a good idea. You need a plan and then act on your plan. Seniors, and their family members, interested in staying fit and socially engaged may find additional helpful information in the articles published here at LTC News.

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