Consumer Corner: Thinking of retirement? Here's our expert tips on how to thrive

Your physical, mental and emotional health are just as important when you retire

Retirement is something many people dream about: having the time to take off on holiday whenever you like, taking care of the garden or reading a book at your leisure.

Ailish McGlew of Spry Finance says that retirement is a momentous stage in anyone’s life and the decision to step back from the daily grind can be influenced by factors including health, job satisfaction, and financial readiness. She says that in most cases retirement will involve a profound shift in lifestyle, finances and even personal identity.

“Uncertainty about finances can make the decision about when to retire complex but it is far from the only consideration. Your physical, mental, and emotional health is just as important and in an era when retirement really doesn’t make you ‘old’, there are areas you can focus on to ensure you live a greater later life," says Ms McGlew.

There are so many things to consider in addition to finances when it comes to retirement and this is not just for those facing retirement but also for the people around them. It is a huge event in someone's life and it is so important that family and friends acknowledge this shift and support those in retirement. A recent survey from the Retirement Planning Council found that maintaining ties with former work colleagues is a priority for nearly half of retirees. Also, on a positive note, more than two in three said they were happy with community resources that were available for people in retirement such as local parks, coffee shops or libraries.

Here's eight top tips to thrive in retirement

1. Keep mentally active

Keeping mentally active in later life is essential for maintaining cognitive health, emotional well-being, social connections, and overall quality of life, says McGlew. “Even simple activities like reading a book, solving a crossword or sudoku puzzle, and keeping up to date with current affairs help older adults lead fuller, more independent, and more satisfying lives. But why stop there, you could even write your memoirs, learn a new language, or take up a new musical instrument.”

2. Go back to school

There are a host of options for older people to engage in lifelong learning at community and major colleges, online or in person. Munster Technical University is a designated Age-Friendly University that offers courses for older students, while UCC also offers a range of part-time courses through its Adult Continuing Education programme.

3. Consume a healthy diet

You are what you eat and that doesn’t change when you retire, says McGlew. “However, as the body ages, its nutritional needs change, and a balanced diet becomes essential for maintaining health and managing age-related conditions, such as heart, bone and digestive health. Talk to your doctor or a dietitian about a healthy diet that supports your overall well-being, and quality of life.”

4. Regular exercise

There are plenty of clubs around the country that could be an option for taking up in retirement. Some great sports are tennis, swimming and golf, which are very popular in Ireland. Of course, walking is another great way to stay fit and healthy in retirement.

5. Travel

Many people will look forward to getting their free travel pass in retirement and this will allow you to explore new places around the country.

“Make a list from A to Z of places in Ireland and abroad you would like to visit and then start planning,” says Ms McGlew.

6. Cultivate a positive state of mind

Retirement is a big step and it is understandable to be apprehensive about what the future holds, according to Ms McGlew. Studies have shown that individuals with a positive outlook on life tend to live longer. “This is partly due to the better mental and physical health, and healthier lifestyle choices associated with a positive mindset. Practising mindfullness and meditation, giving back, and focusing on things that are within your control can all contribute to improved mental wellbeing in later life.”

7. Keep trying new things

Engaging in new experiences can significantly enhance the quality of life and offer a range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. They can also contribute to personal growth and provide a sense of accomplishment that work previously did. Learn a language, an instrument, take up gardening, or join a choir. Volunteering or engaging in community activities will allow you to meet and socialise with new people, which is crucial for helping to combat loneliness and isolation and could also broaden your horizons.

8. Continue to work

Not everyone is thrilled by the prospect of retirement and the promise of endless golf, gardening and travelling. Many people choose to keep

working past the usual retirement age and not just for financial reasons, says Ms McGlew.

“Some reduce their workload and transition the change, while others volunteer, consult, teach or even start a small business. Retirement can be an opportunity to pursue work that is more aligned with your personal passions or interests and under those circumstances it might not seem like work at all.”