October Health – 2025 Report
55-64 Demographic in United Kingdom
Finances (money worries), including retirement income concerns and debt, are the leading cause of stress for the 55–64 UK population. In the workplace, offer financial wellbeing support (budgeting tools, retirement planning guidance, confidential coaching). October can provide digital group sessions and content on financial stress and ageing workers if appropriate.
How mental health affects the 55-64 demographic differently
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Retirement and financial planning pressure: People aged 55–64 in the UK often face uncertainty about pension adequacy, retirement timing, and rising cost of living. This can fuel anxiety and influence work decisions. Coping: offer flexible working, phased retirement options, and access to financial planning resources.
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Health concerns and chronic conditions: Age-related illnesses (e.g., arthritis, cardiovascular issues, diabetes) can affect energy, pain levels, and medical appointments, disrupting work. Coping: provide reasonable adjustments, health management support, and flexible scheduling.
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Caregiving responsibilities for aging parents or partners: Many in this group are “sandwich carers,” juggling work with care duties. Coping: flexible hours, remote work where possible, carers leave, and Employee Assistance Program support.
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Job security and progression challenges: Perceived barriers to promotion, redundancy risk, or bias against older workers can increase stress and reduce confidence. Coping: clear career pathways, upskilling opportunities, mentoring, and inclusive succession planning.
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Transition to retirement and identity at work: Approaching retirement can raise questions about purpose and identity tied to work. Coping: support for phased transition, retirement planning, volunteering options, and meaningful projects leveraging experience.
October can support this age group with digital group sessions, assessments, and tailored content as part of workplace mental health programs.
Data from October Health
What's driving mental health stresses for the 55-64 demographic in South African?
Proactive mental fitness for high performance staff.
Understand the stresses and workplace challenges of your staff and provide them with the tools to protect their productivity and mental health.