A huge shift is taking place in the workforce: seniors are increasingly staying employed or seeking jobs.

There are a variety of reasons. The ups and downs of the economy contribute to working after retirement, but people are also living longer and choose to work, even into their 80s or older.

AARP reported that seniors are becoming the hottest demographic in the labor market. The participation rate by workers ages 65 to 74 will jump to 32 percent by 2022, compared to 20 percent in 2002, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

These are six of the reasons many seniors are still working:

• Education and skills to offer — A higher educated and experienced older generation contributes to businesses whether seniors need work or want to continue working after traditional retirement. Gary Burtless, an economist with the Brookings Institution, noted that a 2009 survey showed 61 percent of people ages 62 to 74 who were still working had doctorate or professional degrees, according to AARP.
• Financial need — Of course, increased income becomes necessary for some seniors who choose to continue working. Continued employment helps fatten up savings and delays filing for Social Security to get more benefits at age 70. A 2014 AARP study found that 35 percent of those 65 to 74 cited extra income as the reason for working in retirement.
• Love of working — Traveling and spending more time with family have their advantages for many retirees, but other seniors have a desire to stay in the workplace. It often helps their self-esteem and identity, bringing continued challenges that keep them busy. Seniors might choose jobs they enjoy that have flexible schedules, full- or part-time.
• Employee benefits — Perks from employers may include employer contributions to 401(k) plans or life insurance, Kiplinger pointed out. Health insurance is another benefit that could be less expensive than Medicare. Spouses younger than age 65 can benefit from the insurance plans.
• Taking it easy with part-time work — Many seniors look forward to the retiring years, but choose to scale back while remaining in the workplace, according to the National Council on Aging. Some of these workers might need the work for extra income while others just enjoy the feeling of working along with retirement.
• Encore career — Seniors often have a desire to try something different that is also fulfilling. Encore careers may provide personal fulfillment with financial gains, according to TheStreet. These seniors are finding different jobs in education, public service, and other areas.

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