Aging with Grace or Struggle? Lived Experiences of Retired Public School Teachers

Abstract

This study explored the lived experiences of the retired public-school teachers. It also identified the problems encountered by the retired teachers, as well as, in dealing to address the problems encountered. The study used the descriptive-qualitative method using phenomenological analysis based on the transcription discourses from the interview. The sources of data were the responses of the fifteen (15) participants who were chosen purposively. Researchers’ made questionnaire was employed and validated. Interview was utilized to gather data of the study. The answer of the participants occurred naturally without any manipulation or treatment from the researcher. The findings of the study show that the problems encountered by the retired public-school teachers were on health, financial and family issues. To address the problems encountered, the participants asked help and guidance from God, exerted more effort to gain another source of income, joined organizations, relax life and by sharing their problems with friends. Since there are economic and social problems encountered by the Retired Public School Teachers after retirement that affect their quality of life, there is a need to address these problems. Lack of planning before retiring is one of the reasons why retired teachers cannot attain the life they have wanted. Further, having trouble in adjusting to the life of being a retired professional is also considered.