Relearning Retirement
Modernizing the Golden Years and Embracing Active Aging Strategies
Let’s face it, retirement has changed.
Retirement is an important milestone, but not always a gentle one.
Do you remember when 65 was considered the age of retirement? Or the “Freedom 55” commercials”? Things have changed a lot. Multiple worldwide recessions, greater longevity and advances in medicine have all had an impact on retirement planning.
Modern-day retirement looks very different from person to person. While some of us may stop working completely, others may find themselves in part-time employment or intrigued by a new career or studies later in life.
Regardless of what our individual retirement looks like, this time of life represents change and with change, often comes doubt. Alongside our celebrations and anticipation, we may also notice feelings of anxiousness, doubt or uncertainty. Retirement is not always a gentle change. So let’s talk about it!
“Retirement is a bittersweet symphony, where you bid farewell to the past while embracing the possibilities of the future.”
Can we plan out freedom?
Sounds contradictory we know, but we promise it can help!
They say humans are creatures of habit and that having routines and structure in our day can support well-being. In retirement, many find that for the first time in years, they have nowhere to be. The morning routine is no longer the same and must be recreated to suit a very different lifestyle. Some will experience these changes as liberating and welcomed while others will struggle with the lack of structure. Many will experience both. We may experience a loss of control as we transition into retirement while navigating this new chapter.
In essence, the newfound freedom of retirement can lose its allure fast, so it is important to plan out your days. You get to decide when you wake up but it can be helpful to create a routine, get dressed, and breathe in some fresh air. Doing so can help you transition into this new stage of life while also incorporating some spontaneous activities and leaving room for rest and self-care. Retirement can be a daunting transition, so it is vital to be kind to yourself as you figure out this new adventure ahead of you.
Liberating ourselves from the legacy of loneliness!
Embracing the warmth of community and friendship.
Where is it written that retirement has to be reclusive? Of course, there’s no denying that feeling lonely is a real concern for seniors and older adults. There are many life events aside from retirement that also contribute to these feelings such as the death of a spouse, friends or family moving away, divorce, disability, or changes in our health which can impact our ability to stay connected to others. Finding ways to keep a positive mindset is important because it reduces the chances of mental illness and helps keep us healthy. Planning outings with family, calling friends to check in and volunteering can be a great way to keep social. Online volunteer positions can increase access to opportunities even if we can’t leave the house due to mobility, financial or other limitations.
Retirement can also be a time to explore a new hobby, take lessons, or join a local club. Some seniors also use social visiting programs in most communities that foster connection with younger volunteers to visit in-home, community, or retirement centres. Check out this handy guide to explore Ontario’s programs and services for seniors in sports and recreation and associated tax credits.
Exercise becomes even more important as we age because it helps keep our body healthy and our mood lifted. It is recommended that adults over 65 get 150 minutes of physical activity per week. For more tips and resources, McMaster University has an Optimal Aging portal with information and articles from trusted sources.
“What if I’m still finding it difficult to cope?
Remember, you’re not alone. There is support available.
If, despite best efforts, it feels as though your mental health is deteriorating, it’s important to seek help. Excessive fear, low mood, difficulty with focus and concentration, intrusive thoughts, and avoiding activities you used to enjoy may all be signals that you may benefit from extra support through this stage of life. Retirement and aging come with a new set of challenges, which may require new coping skills.
Retirement planning goes beyond financial and logistical decisions. It also includes proactively considering what factors will keep you healthy in mind, body, and spirit so that you can enjoy this special time of life to its fullest. If you would like support in planning for an emotionally balanced and healthy retirement, consider reaching out. Public health programs and mental health professionals can help you make a gentle transition into this new part of your life. Listed below are some resources and articles that you may also find helpful.
We offer a community of care.
Whether you're facing a current challenge, a past pain, or are simply feeling stuck in this phase of your life, we can help you to live the life you want with intention, mindfulness and balance.
We offer free 15 minute consultations.
Connect with us and let’s talk about how we can help you.
SOURCES:
Alberta Health Services “Mindful Aging”
BMC Public Health “Retirement and mental health: does social participation mitigate the association? A fixed-effects and longitudinal analysis”
McMaster University Optimal Aging Portal
New York Times “‘Do You Really Want to Rebuild at 80?’ Rethinking Where to Retire.”
Ontario Government Ontario programs and services for seniors in sports and recreation
Sage Journals “Retirement and Mental Health”
Science Direct “Retirement and mental health: Analysis of the Australian national survey of mental health and well-being”
