"The fact that several psychological scales exist that only measure retirement anxiety indicates there's more to this transition than we imagined-and plenty of it is anxious. If this is you, you're far from alone. There are no quick fixes, but that's OK; retirement is a process and takes time. Beyond your financial and physical health, here are fun ideas that offer renewed purpose and social enrichment-on your own terms:"
"Consider mentoring. After a long career as a line cook, CEO, garbage collector, lawyer, what have you, let people know you're happy to talk to younger people considering a similar path. This expands your network of those you associate with (the social piece) overall, and intergenerationally as well. Meanwhile, mentoring can underscore for you how much you've learned and experienced along the way. You might surprise yourself. And the gratification of helping others on a path you know well offers inherent meaning and purpose."
"The biggest bump in those retiring-until 2050-is happening now. More than 4 million Americans will turn (or have turned) 65 in 2025, and that many more will turn 65 in 2026. While scads of older adults retire (or at least reach retirement age), we're bombarded with info on how to make ourselves and our retirement lives better, longer, stronger. It can feel scary and overwhelming."
More people are retiring now than at any time before, with over four million Americans reaching age 65 in both 2025 and 2026. The surge amplifies exposure to abundant advice on extending healthspan, longevity, and retirement quality, which can feel overwhelming. Physical, mental, and financial health sustain a durable retirement, but identity and social life also act as important, intangible life-extenders. Leaving work often reduces built-in meaning and social networks, creating anxiety for many retirees. Retirement unfolds as a process without quick fixes, and active choices—mentoring, reconnecting through alumni groups, and pursuing social engagement—can restore purpose and broaden social ties.
Read at Psychology Today
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