Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — Retirement is supposed to be a time to enjoy life but for many people, it is not all we dreamed it would be. This year alone, more than four million Americans are expected to turn 65 and reach traditional retirement age. While many plan for the financial side of retirement, experts say there’s a risk few people prepare for, losing their sense of purpose. Research shows about one in four adults over 65 is socially isolated, and the CDC reports loneliness in older adults can increase the risk of heart disease by 29 percent and stroke by 32 percent.
From meetings and deadlines to a quiet house and an empty calendar. The moment some people walk away from their job they also walk away from a huge part of who they are.
“A profound shift in identity occurs when people retire,” said Jenna Watson, LMHC, career coach.
And that identity shift can hit hard.
“And they will end up depressed or very anxious because they don’t know who they are. Like who am I outside of the title of CEO or CFO or mental health clinician?” explained Watson.
Experts say the key is planning for purpose, not just paychecks. They suggest asking yourself these important questions.
“What do I want out of life when I’m no longer working? What do I want my retirement to look like?” said Watson.
Experts say the key is staying engaged through volunteering, learning new skills, staying active, or even part-time work. Studies show older adults who stay socially engaged have lower rates of depression and have a 20 percent lower risk of death compared with those who are socially isolated. And remember, the best time to plan for your retirement life is before you leave your career.
If you’re worried about that transition, there are resources to help. Groups like AARP and encore.org offer online tools, community programs, and even second career guidance to help retirees find purpose after work. If you want to volunteer but don’t know where to start, check out volunteer match dot org to find opportunities in your community.
Contributors to this news report include: Marsha Lewis, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.
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Sources:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/loneliness-and-social-isolation-older-adults
https://www.cdc.gov/socialconnectedness
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/loneliness-and-social-isolation-older-adults
