As we are living longer than ever before and supposedly getting taller (not that I have benefitted from that!) we need to think about how we are going to spend our time in retirement.
Retiring at 65, with an average life expectancy well into our 80s, means we may have decades of retirement ahead.
Is stopping work entirely the best choice for your brain health and overall well-being, as the older we get, the risk of getting dementia increases? If we kept going and stayed mentally active, would the risks decrease?
A 2017 report, Preventing Cognitive Decline and Dementia, by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, identifies three key interventions:
- Cognitive training
- Blood pressure management for people with hypertension
- Increased physical activity
Just like any muscle in your body, your brain thrives on being exercised, whether that is work, learning, crosswords, or Murdle (this is a fun murder mystery logic puzzle that I discovered at Christmas).
Other research suggests that staying connected with family and friends helps too, as preventing social isolation and loneliness can reduce the risks of cognitive decline.
One crazy report talked about drinking less alcohol!!
Rethinking Retirement – Cognitive training
The traditional view of retirement – stepping away from work entirely, might not serve your mental and emotional needs. For some, a sudden retirement, even if wanted and planned, can lead to unhappiness. People miss their work colleagues and the mental challenges that come with their role and their sense of purpose.
Instead of retiring completely, consider being a consultant, working part time, or doing something completely different that you would love to do, but have never had the time or energy for before. Maybe volunteering is your thing, going (back) to university, or picking up a musical instrument. What would you love to do?
The longer you keep your brain working, the better.
Increased physical activity
The older you get; it is even more important to do strength training and use your body’s muscles. Do not let them waste away, but keep active, whatever that means for you. Walking, golf, running, cycling, tai chi, dancing, especially CrossFit (I know, I love it!!) can be done at any age. One of my best friends at Crossfit is 69 and he is so inspiring to watch as he does handstand push ups, double under skipping and back squats.
The Key Takeaway: Don’t Stop Growing
As you plan for your future, think carefully about what retirement means to you. Do you really want to “stop” at 60 . . . 65 . . . 67, or would you rather use this time to grow in new directions?
The choice is yours — and your brain and body will thank you for it.
So don’t let retirement just happen, plan it and have fun.
Need guidance on planning for your retirement? Get in touch as we would love to help.
