Australians are better prepared for retirement than their counterparts in the U.S., according to recent research carried out by Putnam Investments Australia and Portfolio Construction Forum.

The research suggests that there are both major differences and similarities for retirees in both countries, with lessons to be learnt for both.

"A major trend in the U.S. is that people who have retired are returning to work in order to meet their financial commitments," said Putnam's Boston-based director of market planning and development, Beth Segers.

"Our survey found that about 35 per cent of retired Americans are doing so, while 30 per cent of workers over the age of 45 are not confident they will have enough money to live on through their retirement years.

"However, in the Australian Retirement Survey conducted last month, advisers say that less than 25 per cent of their retired clients have returned to work, and most have done so out of choice rather than necessity."

Ms Segers said there were also several similarities in the retirement trends emerging between the two nations.

"There are a number of trends we are experiencing now in the U.S. that may provide lessons for Australian planners and their clients. The most significant of these was family obligations," she said, citing those felt by baby boomers towards their parents.

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