Show #386 Airing Sunday 5/6/07
You've done your homework for retirement. You've invested, saved, and even planned for your estate. But to graduate at the head of the "senior" class, you must also study up on the emotional aspects of retirement. Here to help us review is retirement planner Helen Rivelis from D&H Consultants.
Question: On "Golden Opportunities", we spend a lot of time talking about the financial planning needed for retirement. But there's more to a successful retirement than financial security, right?
Answer: Yes. Many people think retirement planning only involves how they are going to handle their money. Of course, money is a very important part of retirement, but once the money situation is taken care of, the next thing to consider is: How am I going to fill 40 hours a week with meaningful activities? Am I going to miss the social connections that I had with my co-workers, and how am I going to replace that? I was proud of what I contributed to society through my job-how do I replace that feeling? And who am I now that I'm not working?
Question: Where do we start?
Answer: Take some time to think about what activities would be meaningful to you. This list is different for everyone. Think about what was on your wish list when you were daydreaming at work. Consider what your passion is. What are your hobbies? What do you enjoy doing most? And then think about how those might translate into activities.
Question: Helen, to help us get started, you've made a list of ideas for retirement leisure time activities. First is volunteering.
Answer: There are many volunteer opportunities. Do you like kids? Volunteer with children in school, as a scout leader, or as a mentor. Or you can volunteer with the elderly as a special friend who writes letters or goes to lunch with them. Like theater or music? You could volunteer as an usher at Playhouse Square or the Cleveland Play House, at Severance Hall, or at the various museums in town.
Question: Next, education.
Answer: Take classes at any of the state and local colleges. There are FREE courses for those over age 60 at Cuyahoga Community College, Cleveland State University, Lorain Community College, and Lakeland Community College. Any course is open to you at no cost if there is a seat available.
Question: Then community activities.
Answer: Take an interest in the politics of your community. Become a member of your community's city council or school board. You've got wisdom, you've got time; put them to good use.
Teach Sunday school or get involved in your Church or Synagogue.
Question: Exercise.
Answer: Get involved in a sport of your choice, as well as a daily exercise program. It's good for your mind and body.
Question: What about hobbies?
Answer: Anything you enjoy doing is worthwhile. Join a group of people who share your interests. Try new hobbies as well, and get your friends involved too.
Question: And finally, travel.
Answer: In retirement, you finally have the time to take a trip leisurely and enjoy the sights at your own pace.
In addition to traveling on your own, there are other group opportunities. For example, "Elder hostel" caters to people 55 and older.
Colleges and universities all over the world offer programs for a week or two where you can get room and board along with classroom instructions on given topics. They may even take you on sightseeing tours of their location. It's a great way to see the sights, learn, and meet people who share some of your interests.
Question: These are a lot of ideas. Any additional tips?
Answer: If you start an activity and discover you don't enjoy it, do not be afraid to move on to something else. Perhaps you've thought for years that you'd like to work with children, but after volunteering decide that it's not for you. Don't feel you have to continue with the activity!
There are many wonderful and exciting things for people in retirement to do, but you must seek them out. No one is going to come knocking on your door. And don't let doubt stand in your way. Be proactive.
Retirement doesn't mean retiring from an active, fulfilling life. Take charge and do what you enjoy. For more information on getting the most out of retirement, call the number that's next. My thanks to Helen Rivelis.
