For those people that are working “9-5”, full time jobs for many years, thoughts of retirement often pervade their conscious “wish lists”. Dreams of not waking up to an alarm, not having to commute to a workplace, no set schedule of meetings, not working with some people you do not like, having endless time to read books, golf and pursue your hobbies…NIRVANA, right?
Well, there is evidence suggesting that death rates can increase in the first year after retirement, particularly when individuals retire early, with the most significant jump often observed around the time of claiming Social Security benefits at age 62. This is attributed to factors like a sudden loss of routine, social interaction, and potential health decline associated with leaving the workforce.
I believe that retirement falls into that category of “The Rass Is Always Greener…” meaning that those still working full time believe that retirees have the best lives whereas those that are retired miss those days of still being “in the game”.
As a physician, I have seen the scenario way too often of patients of mine that retire and they seem to age much quicker both physically and mentally. The sense of “purpose” starts declining and people find themselves bored lots of the time. That boredom (I have written about this previously) leads to too much time spent on social media, snacking on poor food choices and in many other ways, detrimental behavioral patterns.
Some professions are more amenable to others in “staying in the game”. I am VERY lucky being a physician, because even though I do not own my busy, multi employee practice anymore, I still practice medicine, hold the role of Medical Director of several medspas and stay engaged in my chosen profession. Lawyers, accountants and many other professions are amenable to part time work in those retirement stages. However, for others, their expertise does not allow for part time endeavors and for those people, learning and applying new skillsets is the way to go.
We all must know who we are and what our “makeup” is before retiring. If you know that you are built for golfing, reading and taking care of grandchildren and your dog, there is nothing to fear about retirement. However, if you are built otherwise and will not take retirement well, plan how to “Stay in the game”. By doing so, you will live longer and happier.
Enjoy ABBA’s ‘The Name Of The Game”
