Posted on: 21 May, 2021

An Insight into the Psychological Impacts of Retirement and How to Overcome Them

Retirement can be a daunting experience. Here, we explore ways in which you can reduce the psychological impacts of retirement for a seamless transition.
by Extra Care Living
    the psychological impacts of retirement: senior lady laughing with young lady at home

    If you’re feeling quite daunted at the prospect of retirement, you’re not alone. 

     

    Retirement is a huge life change and can often cause feelings of anxiety and uncertainty. 

     

    This week, we’re looking at the psychological impacts of retirement and how you can overcome them for a seamless transition into a happy retirement:

    Leaving the World of Work Can Be Daunting

    The prospect of leaving your job may cause you to feel stressed. Work is an integral part of many lives; it offers financial security, structured days and a sense of purpose.

     

    When you retire, you may feel that you have too much time on your hands. It’s important to re-visit your goals at this point; you could, for example, look into working part-time to give you a routine, or you could start a business from home to keep you busy. 

     

    Having that extra source of income can help to relieve the financial pressures retirement may bring, too. If you enjoy a specific hobby or craft, such as woodwork or painting, you could look into how you can turn it into a business.

    Start a Hobby

    Perhaps you don’t want to continue working and are looking forward to a well-earned rest during your retirement?

     

    Having a hobby can still help to structure your week and help you to stay socialised. Many pastimes, such as reading and crafts, offer plenty of opportunities to mix with like-minded individuals.

     

    You could consider a local sports or craft club for your age group, or think about setting up a book club from home and inviting your local community to join you.

    Spend More Time With Your Family

    Returning to work after having children can be difficult for parents, particularly where childcare is needed. Why not offer to care for your grandchildren once or twice a week?

     

    Spending time with your grandchildren can help you to remain physically and mentally active, whilst providing you with a sense of purpose.

     

    It may be beneficial to arrange regular visits with your family too, as you’ll need a close support network through the next stage of your life, and it’ll help to reduce feelings of loneliness.

    Plan Your Future

    It can be unsettling when you’re unsure of what your future may hold. Having a plan in place can help reduce those feelings of uncertainty and give you some stability for your future.

     

    Decide in advance whether you want to stay in your own home or downsize to an extra care living property. It may be helpful to take a look at your financial situation and make provisions for any additional expenses retirement may bring.

     

    It can also be beneficial to create a list of the things you want to do, see or achieve in this time so you have ideas and goals to work towards. Try to factor in the costs of these, and work out how to budget for the dreams you feel are a priority in your retirement; perhaps you could open a separate savings account to start putting money aside to achieve these dreams.

     

    For further information about making the most of your retirement, read our previous blog about prolonging independent senior living, or contact a dedicated member of our Friary Meadow team.

     

    For more advice and regular updates about retirement planning, follow our Facebook page.

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