How to Be More Involved in Retirement

With a longer lifespan than past generations, retirees are reinventing retirement and are more active than ever. There are many approaches to how one wants to live during their retirement years, whether they prefer to be busy or spend a lot of time doing leisurely activities – all that matters is that you have a plan on how you’ll spend your retirement years.

1. Travel – With more time and unlimited vacation hours, retirement is the best time to get up, out and travel more. Whether it is a cruise, a trip to Italy or a road trip across the country – your time is no longer limited by a 9-5 job and you are able to take the dream trip you have always wanted to.

2. Volunteer – Nothing is more rewarding than volunteering your time for a good cause. There are a plethora of ways that a person can volunteer their time – from mentoring youth to working at a food bank. While some people complain of lost connections with co-workers and friends when they retire, volunteering gives you the opportunity to connect with all sorts of individuals who enjoy volunteering their time.

3. Take a class – With family and a career keeping you busy, maybe you did not have the time to expand your horizon and learn something new. Whether you are looking to take an accounting class or would like to take up a course on European history for fun. Many colleges offer auditing programs or may even have a senior citizen waiver available so that you are able to join a couple of classes for free or at a low-cost. You probably won’t be reliving your college youth, but it will still be a fun experience.

4. Begin a new hobby – Take up a new hobby or two to keep yourself occupied – if you have always wanted to get into gardening or painting especially if you have the time now to do it. A new hobby/passion can invigorate the creative juices or even be a new way to relax while keeping busy during retirement.

5. Get active – It’s never too late to get physically active and get your body moving and healthy. No matter what your skill level is, you are able to find the exercise that fits you best. There are many options, including lifting weights, yoga or even taking a brisk walk around the neighborhood. But be sure to consult your doctor before starting any new workout regimen.

6. Start a second career – Whether you enjoy the job or need the extra cash, a second career is an option that many retirees look into. If you are looking for more time or flexibility, consulting positions or working part-time might be an option for you. Some retirees even get a second wind and decide into starting their own businesses.

Whatever you choose to do in retirement is your choice to make, and it can even change as your interests continue to change and grow. A reverse mortgage is an option available for those who are 62 and older to turn a portion of their home equity into cash and help be a part of their retirement finance plans. Speak with our Senior Advisors today at 1-888-QUALIFY to learn more about the reverse mortgage program and how it can benefit you.

Image courtesy of [Sira Anamwong] / FreeDigitalPhotos.net