What Opportunities Does Retirement Bring to Life? Views on Retirement among Slovak Working and Non-working Retirees: A Q Methodology Study

Retirement represents a significant life phase; however, individual experiences and perceived quality of life in retirement are highly diverse. This study explored the subjective views of Slovak working and non-working retirees regarding the opportunities retirement brings, using Q methodology. A set of 36 statements covering key domains (retirement conceptualisations, perceived gains and losses, retirement-related concerns, self-efficacy, and attitudes toward working after retirement) was ranked by 56 participants aged 62 to 73. Factor analysis revealed five distinct perspectives: (1) Life as Before , viewing retirement as a continuation of working life; (2) Slower Pace , favoring both retirement and work at reduced intensity; (3) Freedom , emphasizing retirement as an opportunity for personal fulfillment; (4) Enjoying Retirement , highlighting the right not to work while maintaining skills and financial stability; and (5) Stressed and Frustrated , reflecting dissatisfaction with mandatory retirement and concerns about financial security and loss of meaning. These perspectives illustrate the multifaceted and heterogeneous nature of retirement experiences, demonstrating how retirees evaluate their quality of life and the opportunities available to them. Findings underscore the importance of flexible retirement policies and personalized support systems that acknowledge the diversity of resources, capabilities, and retirement trajectories among individuals.