A New Career Path in My 60s
The post-divorce era is no doubt a time for reflection, certainly a time of change, and likely a crossroads of where one has been, and what comes next. Sage advice is not to make any major life changing decisions for at least a year after such a huge life event; however, on a personal level, I felt a sense of some urgency to “get on with it” now that I am in the third and final act!
Nothing earth shattering, but I knew that I was keen for a new career path that would bring purpose into my single life. I needed to give back in some way after living such a privileged life for so long.
Stay Alert to New Possibilities
I found a new path purely by chance. Last year I attended the funeral of my uncle. I remembered talking with the celebrant afterwards and thinking what a valuable contribution she had made to the service. You see, ask most people and they do not know what a celebrant is. In layman’s terms, it is a person who performs or officiates ceremonies, be it human funerals, pet funerals (my specialty), weddings, naming ceremonies, or vow renewals: and not in a religious context, rather a spiritual one.
I liked that a lot, it resonated with me, and after doing some extensive research I decided to invest in a reputable training course. Not technically mandatory, but I believe showing credibility is worth its weight in gold. Hence, a five-day intensive in-house training course ensued, and it was illuminating for so many reasons.
There were 20 of us on this course aged anywhere between 25 and 75. It was fascinating to meet people from different walks of life, coming together in this short space of time for the same reason, but processing the experience in vastly different ways.
To the point that those of us in the more “senior” age group showed compassion, empathy, wisdom, understanding, and plain common sense that the “younger” age group simply lacked and through no fault of their own. Because life events carve the path to experience and knowledge, and we simply have to earn all the valuable lessons: we can’t buy them or take a shortcut.
That is why I am always puzzled that there is such rampant ageism in the workplace (whichever country I have lived in, and there have been many). Employing competent seniors should be viewed as the jewel in the crown, not the valueless fake gem, as it so often is.
Read more: 5 Career Change Ideas That Involve Working with Animals.
The Fruits of the Challenge
One of my first services was for the loss of a son of one of my oldest friends. Needless to say, it was difficult for me to keep it together, yet somehow I did (after a small wobble). Shortly afterwards, I held a pet ceremony for the loss of a dog, and pet losses are definitely just as impactful for many people as human loss.
I realized that I enjoyed this line of work so much because it enabled me to connect with, and offer a helping hand, in times of need for those who are grieving. Thus, I found a line of work that suited me well, and it felt good to get out there and learn something new, thereby building my confidence, and finding a sense of achievement by challenging myself.
So, my advice to you is to listen to that old cliche of “it’s never too late.” Go find that special something that speaks to your soul, and remember that collectively we have put in years of blood, sweat and tears to earn the badge that makes us so valuable in the workplace. That is true whether we choose to cultivate a small business of our own, or we are out there as employees; seniors bring value to the table.
Read more: Being of Service in Your 60s
Career Options for Those Over 60
Transitioning into a new career in your 60s can be both an exciting and fulfilling journey. Many careers that suit older adults offer flexibility, purpose, and opportunities to use life experience as a strength. Whether you’re looking for financial security, a sense of accomplishment, or a way to stay socially engaged, there are plenty of career paths to explore.
Here are some of the best career options for individuals in their 60s and beyond, including roles that require minimal retraining and those that can be pursued independently.
Read more: 9 Benefits Boomer Women Can Find in an Encore Career.
Coaching or Consulting – Leverage Your Expertise
If you have decades of experience in a particular industry, why not turn that knowledge into a consulting business? Many companies prefer hiring experienced professionals on a contract basis rather than full-time employees. You can also offer one-on-one coaching services in your field.
Best For: Retired professionals, corporate executives, educators, entrepreneurs
Why It Works: Requires minimal retraining, flexible hours, remote work options
How to Get Started:
- Identify your niche and expertise
- Set up a website or LinkedIn profile to market your services
- Network with former colleagues or join online marketplaces like Clarity.fm and Upwork for consulting gigs
Remote and Freelance Work – Work from Anywhere
The rise of remote work has created opportunities for older adults to work from home. Freelancing, virtual assistance, customer service, and content creation are just a few options that allow for a flexible schedule.
Best For: Writers, administrative professionals, former teachers, retirees wanting flexibility
Why It Works: No commute, work from anywhere, set your own schedule
How to Get Started:
- Register on freelancing platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or Freelancer
- Offer skills such as content writing, bookkeeping, data entry, or social media management
- Take online courses to brush up on digital tools like Microsoft Office, Canva, or QuickBooks
Healthcare Roles – Meaningful Work in a Growing Field
The healthcare industry is expanding rapidly, and many roles don’t require a medical degree. Options include patient advocacy, caregiving, medical transcription, or working as a home health aide.
Best For: Those with caregiving experience, retired nurses, empathetic individuals
Why It Works: High demand, flexible hours, deeply rewarding
How to Get Started:
- Take a short certification course in patient advocacy or senior caregiving
- Apply for jobs at hospitals, nursing homes, or home care agencies
- Look into becoming a health coach or wellness consultant
Real Estate or Home Staging – A Second Act in Property
Real estate is an excellent career for older adults who enjoy working with people. Becoming a real estate agent, home stager, or property manager can provide financial stability while allowing for a flexible schedule.
Best For: People-oriented individuals, those with sales experience, design lovers
Why It Works: High earning potential, part-time or full-time opportunities
How to Get Started:
- Take a real estate licensing course (usually takes a few months)
- Consider a home staging certification if you have an eye for interior design
- Join a local real estate agency or start your own business
Artisanal or Craft-Based Businesses – Monetize Your Creativity
If you enjoy painting, knitting, woodworking, jewelry-making, or other creative hobbies, selling your work online or at local craft fairs can become a rewarding career.
Best For: Crafters, artists, retirees looking for a fun side hustle
Why It Works: Low startup costs, enjoyable, and fulfilling
How to Get Started:
- Set up an Etsy shop or sell on platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace
- Market your products through social media or craft fairs
- Consider teaching workshops or online classes to share your skills
Which Career Path Is Right for You?
When choosing a new career later in life, consider:
- Flexibility – Do you want to set your own schedule?
- Fulfillment – Does the job bring purpose and joy?
- Minimal Retraining – Can you transition into the role with your existing skills?
Changing careers at any age can be empowering, financially beneficial, and personally fulfilling. Whether you want to give back, stay active, or explore a passion, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Read more: Are You Ready for an Encore Career?
Let’s Have a Conversation:
What would be your chosen new career path? Do you feel undervalued in your senior years? What would be your dream job in your sixties?
Tags Encore Careers
I love the suggestions, however a coach is someone who has gone through many hour rigorous training and is certified through the International Coaching Federation. A consultant can be someone who uses their experience knowledge and turns it into a consulting practice, an advisor is someone who provides advice often from their own experience/knowledge. A coach is someone who uses the clients own experience and knowledge, and supports the client in digging deeper to come to decisions. So the decisions the client makes come from within not from the Coach. Working with someone who calls themselves a coach, without a designation and education, can be a dangerous endeavour!
Thanks for the inspiring article, I could not agree with you more! Post my divorce four years ago, I found an entirely new and different career being a personal assistant, an amalgam of many of my skills earned throughout my career in business. Not only did I immediately acquire seven great new clients, but it led to becoming a communications director for a well-known musician in the SF Bay Area. I do agree with waiting one year before making any radical changes. We sold our house during the divorce, and I rented a condominium 2 miles away in the same town, before one year later, buying a house in an entirely new city and area in Northern California – Sonoma. It is a whole new and different life in my late 60s and I could not be happier!
Hi all! I am 66 and plan to retire in August 2025. May 2025 will mark 26 years of service as a Library Assistant at The Free Library of Philadelphia. The majority of the 26 years have been served in the Children’s Department.
At age 60, it was a turning point for me. I actually thought of retiring mid 50s but pressed on. Age 60 I had to seriously think about my future, retirement and more. I celebrated more, enjoyed time with family more than ever.
I felt undervalued in my senior years due to arthritis however I press on. Some of the duties I performed earlier I no longer have to do; others pull heavy loads. I am told I am and shown I am a valued staff member as well as respected.
I look forward to my retirement…I have plans to make a poetry book, use talent and skills for selling items as well as organizing parties, workshops, and play dates for joy moments.
I changed my career at just after sixty after years of working in finance and administration.
I live on the beautiful little island of Alderney in the Channel Isles, where we do lead a pretty laid back lifestyle, but I wanted to share my passion for relaxation and wellbeing with our little community.
For many years as I had practiced Buddhism and meditation and had recently become attuned to Reiki so decided to get further qualified and combine the both.
I opened a small business, named Alderney Serenity and offered Reiki, chakra alignment, meditation sessions, spiritual counseling and other holistic and spiritual practices.
My little therapy room, at home, opposite the beach, has now become a ‘sanctuary’ for many islanders so I feel that I have achieved what I set out to do and am delighted with that.
I am now sixty seven, have no regrets, and very little signs of slowing down for this career change gifted me with a new lease of life…
Hello Jannie, good for you, I think that is marvellous. What a wonderful setup you have at your own home …. Hopefully I will get to your sanctuary one day :)
Congratulations to you! Beautiful picture! Yes, you look radiant!! I love your passion for relaxation as well. Wonderful name for a business! May you continue to be blessed and enjoy your new lease on life!