Which statement is true about retirement?

• A. Studies show little or no changes in income upon retirement.
• B. Most retired persons will be taken care of by their children.
• C. Qualified and competent workers can expect generous retirement benefits upon reaching the age of 65 years.
• D. Involuntary retirement is likely to produce stress and depression.

Answer: (D)

The key idea here is how people cope with a sudden or unwanted end to their working life. Involuntary retirement often brings a sense of abrupt role loss—no longer identifying as a worker, losing daily routines, and stepping away from a social network built around colleagues. That combination can trigger stress and increase the risk of depression, because work frequently provides purpose, structure, and a source of meaning beyond pay. When retirement comes without choice, financial worries can compound that distress, making adjustments harder. On the other hand, when retirement is planned and voluntary, people can shape new routines, maintain social ties, and find fulfilling activities, which tends to cushion mood and well-being.

Context helps explain why the other statements aren’t reliably true. Income often changes after retirement due to the shift from earned wages to pensions, savings, or Social Security, so it’s not typically little or no change. The idea that most retirees will be cared for by their children doesn’t reflect modern patterns for many families, where formal supports or personal resources become more important. And expecting generous retirement benefits at age 65 isn’t universal; benefits vary widely by country, job history, and available programs, so assuming universal generosity isn’t accurate.