The Impact of Retirement Age Extension on How Employees Perceive Their Remaining Occupational Life

A Case Study of Daikin Industries, Ltd.

Abstract

This study analyzes Daikin Industries’ extension of its mandatory retirement age and its impact on employees’ occupational future time perspective (OFTP), grounded in socioemotional selectivity theory. Findings indicate that motivated employees in their 50s and those aged 60 or older perceive their remaining work years more positively after the policy change. In addition to broadening perceptions of future opportunities, managerial support rooted in Daikin’s “People-Centered Management” philosophy also appears to strengthen OFTP. These results highlight the complementary roles of institutional reforms and organizational practices in shaping late-career employees’ outlook.