Proper preparation leads to lifetime of joy

As each year passes, it can be easy to forget about the little things. As retirement creeps closer and closer, it’s normal to ponder the bigger picture: where you’re going to spend your retirement, if you’re financially prepared and what your new chapter will look like. However, as important as those larger-scale milestones are, there’s plenty of smaller considerations to note that can enhance your experience.

The decision-making process starts many years before you hit 65, and one of the first major choices to make is determining where you want to be a decade from now. Depending on your budget and lifestyle considerations, do you want to be in an independent living community with like-minded people with activities to keep you social and engaged, or would you prefer to age in place in the home you’ve worked so hard to achieve?

If you choose to age in place, take into consideration how significant that decision is. Choosing to embark on the aging journey from the comfort of your home is admirable – it shows dedication to the life you’ve built and a passion for freedom and independence. With a large decision like that comes great responsibility – it is now up to you to make sure that your wellbeing is prioritized, from protecting your assets to creating a future health plan.

Prioritize Your Health

It’s imperative to make sure that your wellness is the top priority as you age, even though you may be a healthy, independent adult – it never hurts to have your bases covered, especially if your future health needs change.

Visit a health care provider to receive a standard physical, mental, and emotional assessment. You’ll also want to ensure that any and all health conditions you may have, regardless of whether they are minor or chronic, are addressed. If your conditions present a need for ongoing attention, like physical therapy, make those arrangements proactively.

Consider creating a summary document that outlines your health history – try to update it annually or as your needs change. The document can include:

·      Name and date of birth

·      Contact information and emergency contacts

·      Health conditions, if applicable

·      Medications with dosage information, if applicable

·      Health care providers and contact information

·      Insurance information

·      Family history

Avoid Isolation

When aging in place, isolation should be avoided; the Centers for Disease Control reports that isolation has several health impacts, including an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, mental health issues and dementia, among others. Socialization can lead to a sharper memory, better processing speed and an improved mood.

Spending quality time with family and friends is known as the door to a longer and fulfilling life. Not only does good company improve your mood and put you in high spirits, but it also presents several cognitive, physical and emotional health benefits. With retirement comes an abundance of free time, which can be spent engaging in social activities. Is there a social sport you enjoy, like pickleball or golf? Perhaps you’re a member of a book club or you enjoy hosting gatherings. Socialization can even be a few phone calls with family members each week or going to a weekly religious service.

Whatever avenue you seek, find a consistent social activity that works for you.

Fuel Your Body

With each stage of life comes its own set of considerations, particularly in terms of dietary needs. Older adults should pay special attention to their eating habits, as certain nutritional requirements can reduce the risk of chronic disease and help maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle. A well-rounded diet can also improve brain and memory function, heart health, gastrointestinal function and more.

For the 60+ community, dietary needs include:

·      Eating a variety of foods from different food groups

·      Choosing foods with low or no added sugar, saturated fats and sodium

·      Eating protein throughout the day to maintain muscle mass

·      Getting in key nutrients, like potassium, calcium, vitamin D and B12, and dietary fiber

·      Staying hydrated with water, 100% juice, and low- or fat-free milk

·      Avoiding beverages high in salt or added sugars

Make sure to fit in all five food groups: dairy, fruits, grains, vegetables, and protein. Small snacks, like chopped fruits and nuts, can be enjoyed between your three meals each day.

At the end of the day, retirement is one of the greatest joys in life; you’re able to fully enjoy the home you love, travel the world and enjoy years upon years of freedom that you’ve earned. Through proactively protecting your physical and mental health, you can maximize these years, age successfully and peacefully, and soak up a lifetime of joy.

To learn more about Senior Choice at Home, please visit SeniorChoiceatHome.com/Benefits or call 239-788-0694.