Facing Your Retirement Fears
We have all talked about retirement virtually since we started to work. It has been a faraway concept that, in the blink of an eye, is now at our doorstep. But we have worked our whole life and are not sure how to handle this change. The other side of retirement is scary because we haven’t been there before. Here are the top 3 fears about retirement and strategies to ease the anxiety surrounding taking the plunge.
Fear #1: I won’t have enough money. 
The discontinuation of a paycheck is a legitimate concern. One solution is consulting a financial expert to ensure you have a plan in place. The expert may help you create a budget based on any income you may have, including social security, pension, or systematically withdrawing from a retirement fund. For more strategies, see the AARP Retirement Survival Guide. Many people have opted to take a part-time or full-time “fun” job to get out of the house and have a small income. They are retired from their higher-earning careers but have a side job to keep busy.
Fear #2: I won’t feel needed any longer.
Working professionals have continuous demands in the form of returning emails, giving input at meetings, coaching employees to perform at their highest level, and successfully making sales. Activities shift with retirement. Many retirees volunteer for organizations that can benefit from their skills and knowledge. Non-profit organizations are short-handed and need assistance. Volunteering is a great way to try something new and make a difference. If you would like to volunteer, see the AARP volunteer page for Horsham, PA, and surrounding areas.
Fear #3: What am I going to do with myself?
That’s the million-dollar question! Because many people have worked full-time hours plus, they have few hobbies or extra-curricular activities already established. It may take time and effort to transition by cultivating outside interests. Routine is another crucial concept in retirement and can make the transition easier. And as mentioned above, volunteering is an option.
In some situations, we may have a senior loved one that worked extra long time and is seeking retirement at an advanced age. Physical and cognitive challenges may be a catalyst for departure from the job. The adjustment into this new life could be especially challenging. Visiting Angels Horsham can help in these situations. Our Companion Care Program provides valuable companionship for seniors in their homes. Also, our caregivers can assist with activities of daily living, errands, cooking, and shopping. We can help ease the transition into retirement and ensure a senior loved one can age-in-place for many years to come.
Visiting Angels is the premier in-home senior care company in Horsham, PA, and surrounding areas, including Hatboro, Willowgrove, Ambler Lower, Gwynedd, and Spring House. If you would like to learn more about the Companion Care Program, please contact us today to schedule a free consultation at home and learn about how we can support you or a senior loved one.