84-Year-Old Accountant Plans to Work Until 100

Jane Way, an 84-year-old accountant from a suburb of Phoenix, continues to work 30 hours a week for the Open Arms Home for Children, a nonprofit organization that supports an orphanage in South Africa. Despite facing health challenges and mobility limitations, she plans to keep working until her 100th birthday, driven by a sense of purpose and financial necessity.

Way’s career began at a young age in her parents’ restaurant. She later earned a degree in accounting from Cal Poly and became a certified public accountant (CPA). Over her 46-year career, she held various roles across different sectors, including franchising and retail, and was a prominent figure within accounting and finance departments. After the passing of her husband in 1987, she transitioned to contract work, which eventually led her to focus on nonprofit organizations.

Adapting Work Life

Her current job requires her to navigate significant time zone differences. Way’s workday begins at 11 p.m. and concludes at 8 a.m., as her colleagues in South Africa finish their day. She manages financial statements, analyses, and reports, often accommodating her schedule with daytime naps.

“I thrive on work. I need to be doing something meaningful,” Way stated. “My mantra for many years has been to share my best. For me, work is its own reward, and it keeps my mind active.”

Despite being financially dependent on both her Social Security and her income from the nonprofit, Way emphasizes that she would continue to work even if it were not necessary. She has retired multiple times but found that retirement does not suit her lifestyle. She is committed to her current role and hopes to contribute for at least another decade.

Family and Health

Way’s family is integral to her support system. She lives with her son, who suffered a stroke in 2016, and one of her grandsons. This arrangement not only provides emotional support but also practical advantages, such as shared expenses and assistance with technology.

While she has faced serious health challenges, including a two-week hospitalization due to COVID-19 in 2023, she chooses to focus on her work and family rather than her limitations. “You don’t reach 84 without facing some health challenges,” she noted. “I’ve been in a wheelchair for five years, so my ability to be mobile and do things outside my home is limited. My career and family keep me connected to the world.”

Reflecting on her life, Way shared that she has a 20-year plan, looking forward to celebrating her 100th birthday while still being active in her work. “Our lives shape us, just as we shape our lives,” she said. Her priorities remain faith and family, followed by her professional commitments.

Way’s dedication to her community is evident not only through her work but also her active participation in her church, where she serves on the missions committee. She encourages others to find joy in their work and to volunteer, stating, “Find a field you enjoy, and it won’t be work.”

In conclusion, Jane Way exemplifies resilience and commitment to her profession. As she continues to navigate the complexities of aging, her story serves as an inspiring reminder of the value of work, family, and community engagement.