What is an Active Adult Community?Active adult communities are vibrant neighborhoods designed for individuals aged 55 and older who are looking for a more carefree lifestyle. These communities typically feature a range of amenities, including fitness centers, social clubs, and recreational facilities, all aimed at promoting an active and engaging lifestyle. But is this type…

Understanding the Need for ConnectionAs we age, the importance of human connection becomes increasingly clear. Research shows that social isolation can lead to a host of health issues, including depression, anxiety, and even physical ailments. A strong community can provide companionship and emotional support, fostering a sense of belonging that is crucial for mental well-being.

Health…

Understanding the Emotional TransitionRetirement isn't just a financial milestone; it's a significant emotional transition. Many new retirees face a mix of excitement and anxiety as they step into this uncharted territory. It's essential to acknowledge these feelings and take time to reflect on your identity beyond your career. Engaging in activities that spark joy and…

 As I re-read my last post, it occurs to me how fortunate I've been to have had such wonderful people in my life.  It is especially poignant when I renew friendship with them after many decades.  Awhile back an old high school freind called.  I was delighted. He was in my first band.  As budding…

Today I've been thinking about family, friends and former colleagues who I've known over the years who didn't make it all the way.  VIctims of accident, afflication, suicide, war (Viet Nam) of other circumstances than caused them not to finish the race.  Its a dumb expresssion, as if life were as simple as running a…

It's all about perspective, right?  And being there. What if all we have is this little window to the world?  

Years ago my chiropractor told me that stretchng my body to become more supple and flexible offers many physical benfits.  Stretching your muscles and joints also leads to greater range of motion, inmproved balance, and increased flexibility  The same goes for our mental state and attitude.  It's easy to get stuck in a rut, particularily…

First there is a honeymoon stage, characterized by fascination, elation, and optimism lasting from a few days to 6 months or longer.  Remember the first day you didn't have to get up to the alarm clock?  When you had the whole day to yourself?  The whole week?   Golf, fishing, the gym. Ah life is good! …

Earlier I referred my sojourn into the land of retirement.  I stand (sit) corrected.  A sojourn is a temporary stay, in retirement we are for the most part here for the duration, unless you count death as the final retirement.  And perhaps if I'm struggling with the first retirement, how will I do with the…

The other day rummaging through one of my many boxes with the word "SAVE" scribbled on it I found my notes for a workshop I gave years ago in Riyadh on Re-entry Shock.  Re-reading these I found useful and applicable to this stage of my life. Another reason not to throw anything out!  Culture shock…

The knot is cut.  Retirement. For me it was simply a matter of notifying skilled care facilities with whom I contracted , not accepting new patients, and in some cases, developing plans for transition and ongoing care for those needing continuing therapy. For others it may involve retirement and insurance paperwork from your employers.  I…

Limbo (not the dance!) an uncertain period of awaiting a decision or resolution; an intermediate state or condition: the third phase of the retirement process.  Ah second thoughts.  This is where Libra's like me excel!  So maybe I'm not ready for this.  It's an unusual feeling and may coexist with disengagement.  Amid the activities for…

Disengagement - that action or process of withdrawing from involvement in a particular activity, situation, or group.  All the nitty gritty activities which must be taken care of.  Depending on where we are in our sojourn into the land of retirement. It might be a lot or not so much.  For me, it's been going…

Moving by definition is a process.  Retirement is a process, not a destination. I know i'ts often referred to as the next chapter, new act, or second adulthood. But these descriptors seem to suggest a definitive new phase.  In keeping with my culture shock analogy, I believe it's rather a transition, a movement from one…