News Taffy

My book club just finished “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman in which the main character struggles to find a purpose to continue living after the death of his beloved wife and forced retirement. This book highlights what can be a serious problem for many: what to do with themselves after retirement and the children are grown, especially when facing the future alone. Researchers who have studied the physical and mental health of adults over time have found that those who have a purpose or direction outlive those who do not and report being happier and more satisfied with life.

Not surprisingly, your mental health can have a huge impact on your physical well being. Unfortunately, many people underestimate the challenges of having a fulfilling, happy retirement; they plan for their finances but not their leisure time. Without the stimulation of work, boredom sets in and depression can easily follow. It is important to plan how to spend your days to make the most of the last phase of your life.

While not the only factor for a happy retirement, money is important. Make sure you’ve set aside enough to cover your basic daily needs, a fund for emergencies and hopefully some money for those fun things you’ve dreamed of doing as a retiree. The next step is rediscovering the person you used to be or always wanted to be. This truly is your time for self exploration but if you are struggling to come up with ideas, here are a few tips.

Stay healthy. You can’t enjoy your retirement if you are sick or become disabled. Look for a silver sneakers class or join a gym right away. Not only will you stay physically fit, you will make friends and enjoy the social aspect of exercise classes.

Develop or maintain a large social network. Friends and family are key to a positive mental outlook and happiness. Spend time with your grandchildren or young children in your neighborhood - it will benefit you both.

Keep mentally stimulated. Try taking a class at a local college; many allow seniors to audit a class for free. Learn something new - take music lessons, join a bridge club or learn a new language.

Get a part time job. Not only will you have extra money, you will get out of the house, meet new people and learn new tasks.

Now is a great time to pursue the hobbies you never had time for before, whether new or old. You can finish that quilt, grow your own vegetables or even teach others who share the same interests.

You can really make a difference in your community by volunteering. There are so many needs, from tutoring at a public school, taking care of animals at a shelter, becoming politically active, working at a food bank and much more, that something is bound to appeal to your sense of duty.

Form a coffee group, book club or game group that meets regularly. My father always enjoyed meeting his friends at the coffee shop to solve the world’s problems while my mother in law played bridge at least twice a week. These clubs are a great way to stay connected and have fun.

Whatever you do, don’t just expect things to fall in your lap. A successful retirement takes work, just of a different nature.