Retirement Debate: Survey Shows Majority in Southwest Germany Prefer Not to Work Longer

A significant majority of older workers in Baden-Württemberg have little desire to extend their working lives, with many aiming to retire earlier than legally mandated, according to a recent survey. The poll indicates that only 10 percent of respondents in the southwestern German state plan to continue working past the statutory retirement age.

Commissioned by the health insurance provider DAK, the Forsa Institute surveyed 7,086 employees nationwide, including 1,012 in Baden-Württemberg. The findings show a stark contrast to the federal government's push for people to work longer. A substantial 42 percent of respondents in Baden-Württemberg stated they intend to leave the workforce before reaching the legal retirement age, while a further 35 percent aim to work until that age.

Health status appears to be a key factor influencing these decisions. Among those reporting good health, only 39 percent expressed a desire to retire early. However, this figure rises significantly to 56 percent among respondents in poor health. Siegfried Euerle, DAK's state director, emphasized the importance of retaining experienced workers by ensuring they feel valued and have access to corporate health management programs that specifically address the needs of older employees.

Further analysis of health data for nearly 263,000 DAK policyholders in Baden-Württemberg revealed that individuals over 50, while taking fewer sick days overall, experience longer periods of absence when they are ill. This trend contributes to a higher overall rate of missed workdays among older employees, particularly from the age of 64 onwards, where the sickness rate averages nine percent.

“

It is becoming increasingly important to keep experienced colleagues healthy, motivated, and capable in their jobs. For this, above all, appreciation at the workplace and corporate health management tailored more to the needs of older employees are required.