Meanings of Retirement: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Retirement is a central phenomenon in our society, and it is essential to know its current meanings. This article mapped and analyzed the studies about the meanings of retirement through a scoping review based on the PRISMA guidelines. Considering the eligibility criteria and search strategies, 3,904 results were analyzed, with 39 empirical scientific articles being selected. Analyses of publication data and their results demonstrated a wide variety of investigated concepts and some methodological trends, generally with a qualitative approach. Although most studies address the construct in two dimensions (positive and negative), more complex approaches are discussed. A model of meanings with five dimensions was presented (exploring new horizons, absence and search for meaning, contributing on your own way, time to relax, and acquisition of rights), which must be analyzed considering five other groups of influences (individual differences and resources, contextual, job, and situational factors). The study advances theoretically, although future improvements are required.