Are you retired? Semi-retired? I guess you could say I am semi-retired, although I don’t know what that means. My 9-to-5 job has been over for some time now, but the routine of getting up at a certain hour to start my day is the same. I do have, however, a new schedule from the moment I get out of bed to when I wind down in the evening. All that glorious time in between comes and goes with me often thinking, “Where did the time go?”
I do enjoy my “busy” life most of the time. But I must admit that I also enjoy my restful afternoons. It gives me time to reflect on what’s been done and what lies ahead, and times to just vegetate! It’s the excitement of the activity of life that keeps me moving one step ahead of another.
It’s common for retired people to feel a bit lost. It can be disconcerting when you’ve been working for decades and then suddenly stop that routine. But the great thing about retirement is finally having time to do all those things you’ve always wanted – just as long as you do them!
Although we might welcome retirement and the chance to take it easy, research shows that continuing to work in some capacity helps keep the body and brain “young.” According to Cal Halvorsen, an associate professor of gerontological social work at Washington University in St. Louis, “There isn’t a clear link between the amount of time you spend working each week and the resulting health benefits. But everyone’s situation is different. Some may enjoy working close to full time or may need to work a certain number of hours for extra income, while others are content with part-time or even contract or seasonal work.”
Ongoing research has linked a strong social life with a lower risk of heart disease and greater immune function. The Harvard Study of Adult Development, which has been tracking generations of families since 1938, has found that maintaining relationships and social contacts is one of the top requirements for happiness in retirement.
Regular work helps maintain many brain skills, such as comprehension (understanding information), analysis (breaking down complex scenarios into easily understood parts), and evaluation (judging whether a decision makes the most sense).
Many men find a sense of purpose in their work. “Work and careers are tied to status and self-worth, particularly for older men, but in retirement, many men lose that connection and may begin to question their importance in the world,” says Halvorsen. “Work can help them renew their sense of meaning and purpose.” Research has shown that having a strong sense of purpose is associated with longevity, improved memory and cognitive function, and a lower risk of dementia.
Think about it. The secrets to a happy retirement tend to involve staying active physically, mentally, and spiritually. The contented retirees I’ve known often engage in intellectual activities such as reading, learning new skills, or delving into creative ventures like painting or writing. They also prioritize physical wellness through consistent exercise. Additionally, connecting with others through volunteer work, social clubs, or spiritual groups keeps spirits high. This holistic approach to living not only helps us retirees live longer, but also enhances quality of life, contributing to continued happiness in our later years.
We busy retirees may find we have less time than we thought we’d have after our many years of working 9-to-5. But isn’t it better than sitting in our recliner with our eyes fixed on the TV thinking, “Where did the time go . . . ?”
Need some help with that? For more information, contact Youthful Aging Home Health Care.
Lani Kelly is a research writer for Youthful Aging Home Health Care.
