October Health – 2026 Report
55-64 Demographic in United States
In the United States, the leading cause of stress for the population aged 55–64 is work-related concerns, particularly job security and workload pressures, alongside financial worries (retirement planning and medical costs).
How mental health affects the 55-64 demographic differently
- Retirement-related concerns: anxiety about finances, sudden loss of daily structure, and identity shifts after leaving long careers.
- Health and caregiving pressures: increased risk of chronic illness, fatigue, and the potential need to care for a spouse or aging parents.
- Social isolation: smaller social networks due to retirement or remote living, leading to loneliness.
- Workforce transitions: ageism fears, need for retraining, or partial re-entry into work after gaps.
- Digital adaptation stress: keeping up with technology for banking, healthcare, and social connection.
- Bereavement and loss: higher likelihood of losing peers, spouses, or family members.
- Sleep and circadian changes: disrupted sleep patterns and insomnia related to health issues or medications.
- Financial security: concerns about pension adequacy, healthcare costs, and inflation impact on fixed income.
If helpful, digital supports like October could offer targeted group sessions on retirement planning, caregiving balance, and coping with aging-related health changes.
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.