Social and Economic Adaptation of Retired Teachers in the Context of an Aging Population: A Case Study of SDN 05 South Pontianak

This study aims to explore the social and economic adaptation strategies of retired teachers at SDN 05 South Pontianak within the context of Indonesia’s aging population. The research focuses on how retired teachers maintain social roles, manage post-retirement finances, and sustain productive engagement after leaving formal employment. A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed, using in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis to gain a comprehensive understanding of their adaptation experiences. Data were analyzed through three stages of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, while triangulation and member checking were applied to ensure validity. The results show that retired teachers actively engage in both social and economic adaptation. Socially, they remain involved in religious, community, and informal educational activities, which help maintain their sense of identity and purpose. Economically, they rely on pension income, small-scale businesses, and family support to sustain financial stability. The findings reveal that aging does not necessarily lead to dependence but can represent a productive and meaningful phase of life when supported by opportunities for participation. The study contributes to understanding the dynamics of aging and post-retirement adaptation among educators in Indonesia. Its findings can serve as a reference for policymakers in developing empowerment programs for retirees and designing community-based strategies that promote active and productive ageing.