Getting ready for retirement? Getting your finances in order? Most people prepare financially for their retirement, even more so now with current shaky global stock markets, however, few give much thought or attention to how they will realistically spend those years in retirement.
Beyond the cliche images of happy couples walking along a beach, or sharing a glass of wine as they watch the sunset, what will you really spend your time doing? What are the things that will actually make you feel healthy, happy, and satisfied on a day-to-day basis?
Professor Tim Olds and Dr. Carol Maher at the University of South Australia who are currently conducting a study examining daily activity patterns and health and happiness across the transition to retirement share a few retirement living suggestions which may benefit your life.
“Being physically active on a regular basis dramatically reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, keeps you strong and supple, and lifts your mood. The old adage ‘a lean horse for a long race’ is true. With increasing life spans, retirement can be a long race, so keeping in shape is important along with maintaining a social network of family and friends.”
“For many of us, work provides a large part of our social interaction on a daily basis so in retirement, consider joining a club with members of shared interests or a community organization that helps you meet new people.”
Having moved to Adelaide to be closer to family in retirement, 66-year-old Ruth Flinders of Glenelg agrees.
“I consciously thought about how to give my days structure and purpose,” she says, “so I joined a community walking group which keeps me fit and has been a great way to meet people in our new neighborhood. I also joined a club that fundraises for charity which has been a chance to make new friends combined with the satisfaction of doing something worthwhile giving back to the community.”
“I also spend time with my grandchildren and have been learning how to use a computer. My days are full of variety.”
Professor Olds and Dr. Maher also advise that “Keeping the mind sharp helps ward off neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s. The saying ‘use it or lose it is true for the brain, not just the body. Plan how you will replace that intellectual stimulation you got at work. Something as simple as joining a book club can help. Retirement is also the perfect opportunity to learn new things or to study something you have always wanted to do – a musical instrument or taking a photography class at WEA.”
Planning for an active life will provide an excellent foundation for a satisfying retirement.
Are you retiring in the next 1-6 months? The University of South Australia Life After Work-study is currently looking for volunteers