The article presents the findings of a study aimed at assessing the relevance and demand for social work with veterans (retirees) across various state structures, with a particular focus on retirees of the Russian penal system. Against the backdrop of the national strategy for active longevity and the growing number of retirees-currently exceeding 297,000 individuals, with an annual increment of 11,000-17,000 – this group represents a unique socio-professional community whose post-retirement trajectory is marked by early exit from service (average age 44.5 years) and the need for resocialisation in a civilian environment. The purpose of this paper is threefold: first, to ascertain the current state of research on the general social characteristics (social profile) of UIS retirees by examining theoretical and methodological foundations, legal frameworks, and practical social and psychological work; second, to conduct an empirical analysis of these characteristics based on survey data from 1,408 respondents across 43 territorial bodies; and third, to identify concrete directions for providing social support to this category of retirees. The research methods employed include a theoretical analysis of classical and contemporary ageing theories (disengagement, activity, modernisation, age stratification, and social constructionism), as well as an examination of normative legal acts and the practical aspects of delivering social assistance within the Federal Penitentiary Service. The study yielded several key findings. Notably, 67.5% of respondents continue to work after retirement, yet only 25.4% remain in their original specialty, indicating a low conversion of professional capital. Alarmingly, 40% do not feel supported by their former agency, and in crisis situations only 17.6% would turn to colleagues or management, while 65% rely solely on family – and merely 1.8% would seek help from social services. These figures point to a profound deficit of institutional trust and a risk of social isolation. Furthermore, 51.6% have been transferred to civilian polyclinics, losing access to departmental medical care. The findings underscore the necessity of examining this group as a unique socio‑professional community that undergoes a distinctive life transition compounded by maladjustment risks, professional identity crises, severance of social ties, and the imperative of resocialisation. In response, the study proposes a set of specialised social technologies – information campaigns, peer support clubs, employment programmes, and corporate engagement with retired senior officers – designed to transform retirees from passive recipients into active resources for the agency and society. These conclusions highlight the urgent need for tailored, empirically grounded support programmes and cross-agency collaboration to address the systemic challenges facing security-sector retirees in Russia.