Retirement – how do you feel when you hear this word?
Well, it probably depends on how old you are and how you have set things up for when you enter into the retirement chapter of life. Retirement marks the end of decades of hard work and the beginning of independence, freedom and adventure. Setting yourself up for a retirement lifestyle of your dreams entails more than just working hard for years then leaving the workforce.
Beginning the research now for high quality community care will ensure you make the transition seamlessly. If your retirement is around the corner, then please read on to learn how to maintain independence and health as you embark on this new exciting chapter.
Research Options
Retirement does not have to mean moving to an aged care home. Community care is a service that has numerous levels of care with the main purpose of having you stay in your home for as long as possible. Many options are government subsidised and will be the key to maintaining your independence as a new retiree.
Fall Prevention
Your home may seem safe from obvious hazards, however, these hazards shift as you begin to age. Preventing a fall in or around your home is one of the most important safety measures you can take. Ensuring your house is tidy and free from clutter on the ground, in addition to removing unnecessary furniture or other tripping hazards will make your home a safe environment for years to come.
Active Lifestyle
You didn’t work your tail off for four decades to sit around and do nothing during retirement! Engaging in regular physical activity is good for the body, mind and the pocketbook. A recent study found that older people who exercised 5 days a week for up to 30 minutes saved on average $2500 per year for just heart health-related expenses. Regular exercise will also lower your risk of arthritis, type 2 diabetes and dementia.
Social Life
An aspect of the working years that is often overlooked is the social nature of a job. Many new retirees find themselves lonely upon leaving the workforce. Finding creative ways to build a social network in the new retired world will be necessary for overall health and wellbeing. Regular afternoons at the bowling club or weekly bridge tournaments could become the hobbies you never knew you loved because you previously didn’t have time!
Even though we are conditioned to save for and think about retirement starting from our early 20s; when the time comes, many find themselves unprepared. You will find that those who enjoy a long, healthy retirement in the comfort of their own homes are the ones that are not afraid to ask for help. Fragile bones and changing nutritional needs are just two of the many things that must be considered for healthy retirement.
Don’t wait until a bad fall or depression from social isolation ruin the exciting retirement years. Get started now on the planning, to ensure you leave your retirement party ready to reap the benefits of all those years of hard work!
