Haan, Michael, Jonsson, Hans, and Fallahpour, Mandana (2025) Retirees from Europe migrating to Thailand: A study of two co-occurring occupational transitions. Journal of Occupational Science. (In Press)

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Abstract

Background: Retirement migration has increased in Global North societies. However, little is known about how migration affects individuals’ transition into retirement and their occupational engagement. This study explored the experience of co-occurring occupational transitions of retirement and migration. Methods: A constructivist grounded theory approach was used. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 21 retiree migrants from Europe living in Thailand. Results: The co-occurring transitions of retirement and migration are a dynamic process where retirees go back and forth between both transitions. The process is described in four periods: (i) beach period, (ii) real-life period, (iii) becoming established and connected, and (iv) thoughts on health and future. In the early part of the process, the migration transition is more dominant. Once it plateaus, the retirement transition is more dominant. After this period, retirees have thoughts of possible migration back to their country of origin in the future. Conclusion: When migration and retirement transitions co-occur, they intertwine in a process where each alternately takes prominence until both achieve a stable phase of establishment over time. This study shows how retirement and migration influence each other, shaping retirees’ occupations, identity, and well-being, and provides insights into how people adapt to major life changes.

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