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Who Says Retirement is All About Relaxation?

Posted August 27, 2007 3:42 PM
Posted in career, finance, retirement
By Helen Dennis

QUESTION: I am 66 years old, widowed and have been retired for one year. I was an administrator with lots of responsibilities at a university and loved my job. I now maintain a tight schedule of activities because that's comfortable for me. I work part-time in a museum gift shop, teach Egyptian history at a public school, daily visit a 99-year-old friend in a nursing home, etc. Many tell me I am wasting my retirement by not going to lunch, to the movies or taking trips. How do I respond to such criticism?

ANSWER: Your friends or acquaintances may know only one model of retirement -- theirs. Consider providing a little information to them on the subject. You might even share this column.

Here are some recent changes to the traditional retirement:

  • Age is no longer the determining factor in making a retirement decision. Because mandatory retirement has been abolished for most jobs, other factors have become part of that decision. These include the availability of a pension, sufficient retirement income, job conditions, family circumstances, and the ability to perform the job.
  • Retirement can last a long time. For the first time in history, Americans may spend more time in retirement than working.
  • Retirement is a dynamic time in life. It is not static. Preferences, priorities and opportunities change. Retirement at 60 is likely to be different from retirement life at 80.
  • Retirees and preretirees have high expectations. Many expect an even higher quality of life compared to their working years. Today, older adults are healthier, more educated and vital than any other generation in history. This mature generation generally wants to use their capabilities in retirement. And it may not be just for income.
  • Retirement is no longer viewed as a passive experience or as a time for a rocking chair. Although many new retirees may welcome a rest, they typically don't want exclusive relaxation for the next 30 years.
  • Employment has emerged as the new option or need in retirement. Some may work for needed income, the structure it adds to one's day, social relationships or just the love of work. According to an AARP survey, almost 70 percent of workers 45 and older indicate they plan to work in retirement.
  • Most employees want a retirement that is active and engaging. They often seek involvement with causes, people and organizations. Their motivation may be to make a difference and fulfill their desire for intellectual stimulation, physical activity or for spiritual or emotional interests.
  • Almost all older adults are productive in retirement. Of course, this depends on the definition of productive. Productivity does not necessarily mean working for money. It means engaging in an activity that produces value, goods and or services. Caregiving, volunteering and working are examples.
  • Retirement is more of a journey rather than a destination. It is a time of transition and change that continues throughout the retirement years.

    • You might tell your friends that there is noblueprint for retirement. Remind them that individuals in later lifeare more diverse than similar to one another.

    In addition to wanting to spend time with you, your friends may bemaking a specific suggestion -- to have more balance in your life thatincludes your worthwhile activities and just some pure fun andenjoyment. The latter can be difficult.

    We are of a generation for whom work was an important value.Wasting time was almost sinful. For some, playing without guilt can bea challenge.

    Retirement is personal. George Burns never wanted to retire:

    "Retirement at 65 is ridiculous. When I was 65 I still hadpimples," he once said. "I'm going to stay in show business until I'mthe only one left."

    Unlike Burns, most people eventually retire, but notnecessarily in the traditional sense. They may work part time, returnto school, start a business, travel and continue to be fully engaged.

    Let your friends know that retirement in 2007 is different fromyears ago. After expressing your respect for their decisions, you mightjoin them for a quick lunch, just for fun. Consider it good practice.

    Thank you for your question and enjoy this important chapter in life.

    Helen Dennis is a specialist in aging, with academic, corporate and nonprofit experience.

    Source: Daily Breeze. Powered by Yellowbrix.

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