For some seniors, preparing for retirement brings up images of laidback days without the hassle and demands of work. For others, however, just the thought of retiring might be an extremely overwhelming or a terrifying transition.
For these people, this supposedly carefree milestone might even conjure various emotions, from apprehension to anticipation and even depression. This is because retirement is a very complex experience that’s marked by losses and gains as well as significant shifts in routines and identity.
If you’re one of those seniors who feel this way, considering that you already have a solid financial retirement plan in place, here are some simple tips to help you forge a new normal that is as pleasurable and stress-free as you imagine it to be.
Take all the time you need
After all, you’re already retired and transitioning into retirement isn’t an overnight thing. Accept that this is a process where your thoughts and feelings might change from day to day.
Create your mission statement
If you don’t have a bucket list, this is the best time to make one. Include things you really want to do and come up with ways to achieve those things.
Evaluate your resources
Answer these questions to help you come up with ways to deal with this colossal transition: What are the biggest challenges? Am I capable of fixing these challenges and if not, what should I do? The answers to these burning questions will help you figure out what you need to work on.
Plan for a care plan and medical care
It’s also vital that you have a medical and care plan in place if you don’t have those already. Work with your doctors to make a basic medical plan. Next, work with your family to figure out care options and potential living arrangements if you fall ill – would you stay at home?
Live with your children? Or perhaps in an assisted living facility or retirement home here in Ogden?
Just keep moving
Aside from helping you keep illnesses at bay and boosting your overall health, exercising regularly will also give you an ample supply of serotonin and endorphins, which are known to be feel-good stress-busting hormones.
Maintain your relationships and forge new ones
Plenty of studies have found that friendships, even those that involve just two persons, can significantly lower stress levels. So make sure to keep in touch with family and friends. You can also join group classes so that you can make new friends with the same interests as you.
Classes are particularly helpful for men because they typically form alliances, rather than relationships base on shared activities and interests.
If doing these things didn’t cut it, you should seek professional help. No matter your retirement plans, getting and staying involved in something you love really helps. But being depressed and feeling lethargic are warning signs that you need professional help.
In the meantime, try to remain positive about what each day might bring and just keep trying.
