Introduction: Due to the increasing of the number of retirees and the duration of the retirement period, as well as the challenges that exist in employees transitioning to retirement, it is necessary to explore these challenges. The aim of this study was to explore the presence of challenges in the transition to retirement. Method: This qualitative study was a conventional content analysis with purposive sampling method. Sampling continued until data saturation. Data were collected through semi-structured and deep interviews. Data were analyzed using conventional content analysis. Results: Twenty retired nurses participated in the study. The main theme extracted from the data was shock and disbelief caused by being retired. The categories included "little knowledge", "dissatisfaction from working conditions before retirement", and "financial problems". Each category consisted of several sub-categories. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed challenges in the transition to retirement. Based on the experience of retired nurses, basic challenges in the transition to retirement were limited knowledge about retirement, rigid working conditions before retirement, and financial problems. These challenges cause shock and disbelief in the transition to retirement. Exact planning to confront these challenges will result in the retirees being well prepared and will facilitate their transition to a safe and comfortable retirement.
Keywords: Retirement challenges, Transition to retirement, Retired nurse, Shock and disbelief, Content analysis
