ABSTRACT
In our society, and especially in the non-agrarian sector, work and jobs often determine how we perceive our social role and how we define our status. Much of the daily schedule of the worker, and indeed much of the worker's lifetime, is spent in work related activities. Having a work schedule establishes a routine, involves one in the community and is especially important in providing opportunities for socialization and broadening nonworking-hours social contacts. People who work together go to the movies or to lunch or to parties together and the working environment provides access to a wider social network of friends. All these are in addition to a salary, health insurance, and work-related accomplishments. However, to older workers living on a marginal income the continued availability of work may be necessary to meet the basic needs of food, shelter and health care.
