It is often surprising to young people how often a new retiree becomes anxious or depressed. As the young see it, after working hard all their adult lives, retirement should be a happy goal achieved. Unfortunately, the reality is that when that retirement day does finally arrive, the retiree looks at his situation and asks, “Who am I, and what do I do with the rest of my life?”
There are several ways that a retiree can adjust to his new situation, and enjoy retirement years.
- Consider relocating to a retirement community. These communities offer many social activities for their residents. It perhaps will also help you to have down-sized from a more expensive and larger home.
- Keep on working. There are many benefits to continue being in the work force. Working will bolster your financial situation and can be used to pay off any debts, go on an extended vacation, or use it for home improvements. Staying in the work force, having a regular schedule and interacting with different people on a daily basis can help maintain your emotional and mental health.
- Share your knowledge. Organizations such as SCORE are always looking for volunteers to mentor small business owners, provide business counseling, write articles and create and lead workshops.
- Become a student. If your adult life was spent working and raising children, now might be the time to go back to college to pursue that degree you’ve always wanted. There are a staggering number of senior citizens matriculating at colleges across the country. Going the college route will keep your brain sharp and active. Some colleges provide grants or waivers for senior citizens. If you don’t want a degree, you can audit courses for free at Ohio state schools.
- Learn a skill or start a hobby. Learn how to play the guitar, ballroom dancing, cooking, scrapbooking or jewelry design. These types of classes can be done through community recreation departments or craft stores such as Michael’s or Jo Ann. If you don’t want to learn a new skill, this could be the time to start a collection such as coins, antique dolls or autographs.
- Volunteer. The opportunities for volunteering are practically endless. If you love animals, the shelters are always looking for volunteers to walk the dogs. You can also work as a docent in a museum or a tour guide in a park. Check out local houses of worship. They always need volunteers.
- Get political. Most of the Election Day volunteers who are manning the polls are seniors. It’s an easy way for you to play a part. You can also work on campaigns making phone calls, stuffing envelopes or going door-to-door.
- Stay Active. If you don’t have a dog to walk or don’t want to go to a local gym, check out exercise tapes at your local library. They’re free and there are an abundance of them. Or, got to senior centers and make new friends. Many seniors rent or buy RVs and take to the road.
Being a senior has its perks. Among them are discounts. We hope we’ve given you some ideas for your retirement years. Call us at Kabb Law. We can help you in the decision-making process. 216-991-KABB (5222).
