Another fork in the road: the experiences of retired teachers and nurses living in Northeastern Ontario.

Abstract

Canadian women born after the Second World War, between 1945 and 1964, were both credited and criticized for their roles in challenging traditions and forging life pathways that were different to those before them. In recent decades, this cohort has been entering their retirement paths. This qualitative study explored stories about how some women were living the transcendent stage of later life in rural and small towns in Northeastern Ontario. Using a feminist narrative

approach, twenty-one primarily boomer women were interviewed by telephone, using semi- structured questions. The women had retired from teaching or nursing, accomplished professional

designations in their jobs, and lived in the target areas. Braun & Clarke’s (2022) reflexive thematic analysis was followed to generate codes and themes. Ten themes emerged: 1) how do I feel at this stage of my life?, 2) it’s my life, my time., 3) where did my identity go?, 4) what do I do now?, 5) the impact of gender roles on participants’ stories., 6) options for retirement and feelings about this life event., 7) expectations for the next fork in the road., 8) connection and purpose., 9) the importance of health-financial, mental and physical., and 10) let go, take the plunge. The results of this study supported the literature regarding retirement pathways; however, this group mainly identified with transitional or continuity models. Freedom to make choices, unencumbered by the rules of a job, resonated throughout the results. Data highlighted the importance of community and family involvement for overall health and wellbeing. This resilient group determined that they would learn new things and adapt to ongoing physical and mental health issues through staying busy and maintaining relationships with family and friends. Key words: Women, Retirement, Baby Boomers, Professional, Northeastern Ontario, Retirement pathways.