Many people would prefer to take an early retirement

The study, completed in France, found that if a person stops working at 55 then it could cut their stress and fatigue levels.

However, the British Medical Journal did not find any physical benefit of stopping work at that age.

A study that was completed last year found that those who stop working completely at retirement age are at a greater risk of suffering from a heart attack, cancer and other major diseases, than those who ease their way into retirement by taking up a part-time job.

Psychologists believe that the right type of employment can help to boost a person’s self-esteem and keep them active, which can have both a positive mental and physical effect on a person’s well-being.

However, experts have agreed that the decision is a complex one with many different factors to decide upon.

For some people, financial problems are a great concern for deciding when to retire.

Michelle Mitchell, Charity Director at Age UK, said, ‘While retiring early might be beneficial for some people’s health, for the majority of people retiring in their 50s simply isn’t a financially viable option, particularly with the State Pension Age rising to 66.’

By Lauren King