A New Career Path in My 60s | Sixty and Me

The post-divorce era is no doubt a time for reflection, certainly a time of change, and likely a crossroads of where one has been, and what comes next. Sage advice is not to make any major life changing decisions for at least a year after such a huge life event; however, on a personal level, I felt a sense of some urgency to “get on with it” now that I am in the third and final act!

Nothing earth shattering, but I knew that I was keen for a new career path that would bring purpose into my single life. I needed to give back in some way after living such a privileged life for so long.

Stay Alert to New Possibilities

I found a new path purely by chance. Last year I attended the funeral of my uncle. I remembered talking with the celebrant afterwards and thinking what a valuable contribution she had made to the service. You see, ask most people and they do not know what a celebrant is. In layman’s terms, it is a person who performs or officiates ceremonies, be it human funerals, pet funerals (my specialty), weddings, naming ceremonies, or vow renewals: and not in a religious context, rather a spiritual one.

I liked that a lot, it resonated with me, and after doing some extensive research I decided to invest in a reputable training course. Not technically mandatory, but I believe showing credibility is worth its weight in gold. Hence, a five-day intensive in-house training course ensued, and it was illuminating for so many reasons.

There were 20 of us on this course aged anywhere between 25 and 75. It was fascinating to meet people from different walks of life, coming together in this short space of time for the same reason, but processing the experience in vastly different ways.

To the point that those of us in the more “senior” age group showed compassion, empathy, wisdom, understanding, and plain common sense that the “younger” age group simply lacked and through no fault of their own. Because life events carve the path to experience and knowledge, and we simply have to earn all the valuable lessons: we can’t buy them or take a shortcut.

That is why I am always puzzled that there is such rampant ageism in the workplace (whichever country I have lived in, and there have been many). Employing competent seniors should be viewed as the jewel in the crown, not the valueless fake gem, as it so often is.

The Fruits of the Challenge

One of my first services was for the loss of a son of one of my oldest friends. Needless to say, it was difficult for me to keep it together, yet somehow I did (after a small wobble). Shortly afterwards, I held a pet ceremony for the loss of a dog, and pet losses are definitely just as impactful for many people as human loss.

I realized that I enjoyed this line of work so much because it enabled me to connect with, and offer a helping hand, in times of need for those who are grieving. Thus, I found a line of work that suited me well, and it felt good to get out there and learn something new, thereby building my confidence, and finding a sense of achievement by challenging myself.

So, my advice to you is to listen to that old cliche of “it’s never too late.” Go find that special something that speaks to your soul, and remember that collectively we have put in years of blood, sweat and tears to earn the badge that makes us so valuable in the workplace. That is true whether we choose to cultivate a small business of our own, or we are out there as employees; seniors bring value to the table.

Read more: Being of Service in Your 60s

Career Options for Those Over 60

Transitioning into a new career in your 60s can be both an exciting and fulfilling journey. Many careers that suit older adults offer flexibility, purpose, and opportunities to use life experience as a strength. Whether you’re looking for financial security, a sense of accomplishment, or a way to stay socially engaged, there are plenty of career paths to explore.

Here are some of the best career options for individuals in their 60s and beyond, including roles that require minimal retraining and those that can be pursued independently.

Coaching or Consulting – Leverage Your Expertise

If you have decades of experience in a particular industry, why not turn that knowledge into a consulting business? Many companies prefer hiring experienced professionals on a contract basis rather than full-time employees. You can also offer one-on-one coaching services in your field.

Best For: Retired professionals, corporate executives, educators, entrepreneurs

Why It Works: Requires minimal retraining, flexible hours, remote work options

How to Get Started:

Identify your niche and expertise
Set up a website or LinkedIn profile to market your services
Network with former colleagues or join online marketplaces like Clarity.fm and Upwork for consulting gigs

Remote and Freelance Work – Work from Anywhere

The rise of remote work has created opportunities for older adults to work from home. Freelancing, virtual assistance, customer service, and content creation are just a few options that allow for a flexible schedule.

Best For: Writers, administrative professionals, former teachers, retirees wanting flexibility

Why It Works: No commute, work from anywhere, set your own schedule

How to Get Started:

Register on freelancing platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or Freelancer
Offer skills such as content writing, bookkeeping, data entry, or social media management
Take online courses to brush up on digital tools like Microsoft Office, Canva, or QuickBooks

Healthcare Roles – Meaningful Work in a Growing Field

The healthcare industry is expanding rapidly, and many roles don’t require a medical degree. Options include patient advocacy, caregiving, medical transcription, or working as a home health aide.

Best For: Those with caregiving experience, retired nurses, empathetic individuals

Why It Works: High demand, flexible hours, deeply rewarding

How to Get Started:

Take a short certification course in patient advocacy or senior caregiving
Apply for jobs at hospitals, nursing homes, or home care agencies
Look into becoming a health coach or wellness consultant

Real Estate or Home Staging – A Second Act in Property

Real estate is an excellent career for older adults who enjoy working with people. Becoming a real estate agent, home stager, or property manager can provide financial stability while allowing for a flexible schedule.

Best For: People-oriented individuals, those with sales experience, design lovers

Why It Works: High earning potential, part-time or full-time opportunities

How to Get Started:

Take a real estate licensing course (usually takes a few months)
Consider a home staging certification if you have an eye for interior design
Join a local real estate agency or start your own business

Artisanal or Craft-Based Businesses – Monetize Your Creativity

If you enjoy painting, knitting, woodworking, jewelry-making, or other creative hobbies, selling your work online or at local craft fairs can become a rewarding career.

Best For: Crafters, artists, retirees looking for a fun side hustle

Why It Works: Low startup costs, enjoyable, and fulfilling

How to Get Started:

Set up an Etsy shop or sell on platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace
Market your products through social media or craft fairs
Consider teaching workshops or online classes to share your skills

Which Career Path Is Right for You?

When choosing a new career later in life, consider:

Flexibility – Do you want to set your own schedule?
Fulfillment – Does the job bring purpose and joy?
Minimal Retraining – Can you transition into the role with your existing skills?

Changing careers at any age can be empowering, financially beneficial, and personally fulfilling. Whether you want to give back, stay active, or explore a passion, there are plenty of options to choose from.