A new study has found that 60% of Americans between the ages of 55 and 65 do not plan to retire in the next two years. The research, conducted over two years as part of a market analysis for a community-based initiative, examined the emotional, social, and professional status of adults aged 55 and older.
The study also found that more than half of respondents aged 66 to 75 intend to remain active, continue working, and seek opportunities for engagement. At the same time, many participants reported feelings of loneliness, a lack of daily purpose, and a desire for deeper personal growth.
According to the findings, this group — generally healthy, financially stable, and often still working — does not currently have access to institutional programs aimed at fostering personal development or social connection. The study refers to this life stage as “the forgotten age,” describing it as a period after primary work and family responsibilities but before full retirement. It identifies a gap in public and private sector services for this demographic.
41% of participants said they lack meaningful daily content
Among the survey’s key findings, 41% of participants said they lack meaningful daily content. Many expressed interest in joining activities designed to provide a stronger sense of purpose but said they had not found a structured framework that met those needs.
In response to the research, an initiative called Jorny has been launched. Jorny is a community-based program that offers development paths, weekly gatherings, and community hubs for participants to meet and connect. It is currently operating in several US cities, with its first international site being developed in South America. The location was selected based on preferences shared by participants during the study.
“This is the age when people no longer owe anything to anyone — but they deeply want to continue growing, giving, and connecting,” said Eliran Bar, founder and CEO of Jorny. “The problem is, they have no framework to do so. No one sees them — not the system, not the market.”
Jorny is in its third funding round, backed by investors from the healthcare, real estate, and social technology sectors. Bar stated that the initiative has received positive responses from both individuals and institutions.
The program begins with access to a Facebook group called Midlifemomentum, where participants are introduced to the community. From there, they are invited to join local groups, attend curated experiences, and explore additional activities and events online. Jorny also operates destination houses in Costa Rica and offers a leadership track for those interested in leading community efforts.