The golden years are a time when many couples can finally reap the rewards of their hard work, savings and retirement investments. However, everyone’s concept of what it means to retire is different, so you and your spouse will have to discuss your personal goals, how best to achieve them, consider retirement living with Centennial Living.
Here are 7 of many ways that retired couples can enjoy their golden years:
1. Traveling together
Many couples begin traveling in retirement, often making up for lost time during the years they were tied down by work and family commitments. If you or your spouse want to travel abroad, you may need to consult a passport agency to get a new passport or renew an expired one.
2. Spending time with family
The lower stress levels that come with retirement mean that some individuals have more time for family members who live far away, whether through frequent visiting or by relocating closer to them.
3. Maintaining health and wellness
Staying healthy is always important, but it becomes even more necessary as people age. Some people decide that retiring from work gives them a chance to focus on physical activity such as golf, tennis or hiking, while others spend their retirement pursuing hobbies that don’t require much physical exertion at all.
4. Volunteer
Retirement is also a great time to give back to your community by volunteering with local charities. Not only will you be helping others, but it’s also an opportunity to meet new people and learn new skills. Many cities have programs that connect volunteers with local nonprofits in need of help. You can also contact your church or synagogue to find out about volunteering opportunities in your area.
5. Go out and see a movie
Going to the movies is a great way to enjoy each other’s company while enjoying some entertainment, but you don’t need to go out to get that experience – though it’s still fun when you do. Watching a movie at home is often preferable because you get a more comfortable setting, better food and drink choices (and prices) and less in the way of interruptions from others. Still, there are benefits to going out, especially for couples who live together; being in public can be good for social interaction and stimulation, even if neither of you feels like talking to strangers.
6. Quit worrying about your money
The top concern among retirees is running out of money, according to a survey from Fidelity Investments. But that doesn’t mean you should spend all your time watching the markets and fretting about every uptick and downtick in the value of your investments. This can only cause anxiety and make retirement less enjoyable. Instead, focus on building a well-diversified portfolio tailored to your needs and risk tolerance. Then leave it alone and let it do its job.
7. Make yourself useful
The end of one career doesn’t have to be the end of your working days. If you don’t need the money, consider volunteering at a nonprofit organization or taking a part-time job in an industry that has nothing to do with your career. You’ll feel more productive and engaged, and it will be easier to jump back into full-time work if necessary.
