Digital Literacy
Aug 12, 2024

Creating Economic Opportunities for those over the age of 50

Creating Economic Opportunities for those over the age of 50
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Retirement used to happen in one’s 60s, but today, people are living longer and healthier lives. As the baby boomer generation ages, many don’t want to retire—or financially can’t. The kinds of work older adults want to do, and how they want to do it, shift dramatically. Wade, an adjunct professor and GetSetUp Guide, sheds light on the economic opportunities available to those over 50.

Wade, now 66, went from learning in a four-room schoolhouse in Tennessee to becoming an adjunct teacher and GetSetUp Guide. With a Doctorate in Psychology and a minor in computer science, he worked in various consulting roles within the healthcare information system industry, installing hospital information systems across the U.S. for different corporations and small-time companies.

While Wade excelled in all these jobs, he said, “I don’t do well in big companies. I do better in small companies.”

This realization led him to start a small business helping seniors relocate from home to assisted living centers. Throughout his life, Wade balanced his work in healthcare systems and teaching. Today, he continues to merge these fields by assisting with GetSetUp’s classes on health and well-being, such as How to Stay Calm in Stressful Times.

Discovering Purpose with GetSetUp

When Wade and his wife relocated to a more rural area of South Carolina, he began teaching at two community colleges. However, he faced the common challenge of adjunct professors:

“One of the problems with adjunct professors is there is no work in the summer,” Wade explained.

This led him to GetSetUp, where he sought supplemental income that was both interesting and rewarding. “I didn’t want to go work at the hardware store. I wanted something I found interesting and rewarding and challenging. At this age, it’s more about the mission than the money,” Wade shared.

GetSetUp provided the perfect blend of supplemental income and a challenging, yet rewarding profession.

“One of the reasons I keep getting out of corporate America is that I like working with clients. I liked the [GetSetUp] mission about helping seniors feel connected—to find a career or have their virtual happy hour. It seemed very rewarding and it has been. I really enjoy interacting with clients and getting that ‘oh ok! Great!’ I love that. And the ‘Now I can do that!’ That is kind of what jazzes me! I get into a session and they get it. And they are so appreciative. That is the big reward.”

Lifelong Learning and Connection

In today’s uncertain job market, particularly for those over 50, it’s crucial to have access to skills that can help re-enter the workforce. GetSetUp offers classes like How to Use LinkedIn to Market Yourself, customized for older adults. Additionally, companies can utilize GetSetUp to train or onboard employees over 50 in new technology or software services, with classes tailored to their needs and ready to go live in just a few days.

Wade appreciates the flexibility and community at GetSetUp.

“I like that it is a small company. There isn’t a lot of overhead. I really liked being able to meet all three of the owners very early in the process. That felt good because I knew them and I felt their commitment to the clients, and I wanted to do something that made a difference not just to make money.”

As a passionate educator and learner, Wade knows the importance of keeping the mind active.

“I’m a psychologist, so keeping your mind busy is how you keep it strong and avoid Alzheimer’s,” Wade emphasizes.

GetSetUp’s live, interactive classes—designed to empower learners through engagement and hands-on learning—model the very values they promote: more opportunities for seniors to work, reducing loneliness, and fostering economic opportunities.

Join the Growing Movement

GetSetUp is more than just a platform; it’s a community that promotes confidence, empowerment, and learning as vital elements for a healthy and fulfilling life. To find out how GetSetUp can help your organization, institute, or company stay engaged, connected, and combat loneliness, learn more here.