More than half of pensioners surveyed in a questionnaire had taken early retirement, according to a report by the Bahrain Khibra Society for Retirees.
But life in the slow lane can have its challenges such as price of living increases, long-standing debt repayments and health issues.
A total of 807 retirees answered a survey, which aimed to measure and quantify the state of the previously-employed citizens, and the challenges they experience.
Of the respondents, 42pc retired early and 23pc voluntarily, meaning that a total of 65pc had stopped working before reaching retirement age, while only 32 had a standard retirement.
Monthly pensions for 35pc of respondents ranged between BD500 and BD1,000, while 28pc made under BD500, 29pc were paid between BD1,000 and BD2,000, and 8pc more than BD2,000.
Most (80pc) had an additional source of income. Despite these numbers, 60pc believe their pension does not meet their living needs, while 19pc stated it is enough, and 21pc stated that it is sometimes sufficient, but not always.
Only one-fifth of respondents were female (104) and four-fifths were male (703). Fifty-five per cent were employed in the private sector, 42pc in the public sector, and 3pc in the military sector.
“Numbers reveal the fragility of life after retirement,” read the report. “The results present a clear and concerning picture of post-retirement life – particularly from the economic, health, and social perspectives.
“Retirement seems like it is no longer the phase of stability that it was once assumed to be. For a large portion of people, it has become a period marked by increasing living pressures.
“The results indicate that more than 76pc of participants are at their prime – between 50 and 69 years old – an age group that remains capable of productivity and community participation.
“This raises questions about work environments and retirement referral policies.”
