Last week I wrote about “phased retirement” contrasted with “phased working” and wondered how to perhaps shift the focus from “being done” to continuing to contribute and have a purpose.

A growing trend seems to be reshaping how we think about “retirement”: more people are choosing to work well into their later years. And it’s not just about financial security—increasingly, older adults are working because they want to stay engaged. Work provides structure, community, and, perhaps most importantly, a deep sense of purpose.

In addition to the examples I shared last week, two well-known examples embody this shift: 

John Gagliardi (pictured), the legendary NCAA Division III football coach from Saint John’s University, Minnesota, refused to coach by the traditional approach (e.g. no hitting in practice, etc.) and he refused to step away just because of age. Gagliardi coached for an astonishing 64 seasons, becoming the winningest coach in NCAA college football history (489 victories) before retiring in 2012 at age 86. His longevity wasn’t driven by chasing the records, but by his love of mentorship, community, and the energy he found in being around young athletes. 

Warren Buffett is a well-known example. His recent Thanksgiving letter to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders spelled out how he will step down as CEO at the end of this year.  But well into his 90s, Buffett has continued to shape global markets and influence the business world out of genuine enthusiasm for the work. He has often said that he “tap-dances to work,” a simple phrase that captures how his work is a source of joy, vitality, and lifelong learning. 

As people live longer, healthier lives, the old model of retiring at 65 is giving way to something more flexible. Many older adults want to stay active, keep contributing, and remain connected. Work gives them a sense of identity and purpose that doesn’t fade with age. 

Gagliardi and Buffett show that purposeful work has no age limit—and staying engaged can be one of the most powerful drivers of well-being later in life.