How can I regain power when I look to the future? That is to say, how can I adjust my retirement conditions with the normal losses of old age?
Retirement can represent a life transition that is either expected or feared, planned or improvised. Its experience, often associated with a certain kind of freedom, is unique to each individual, as it is influenced by both external and internal factors. You are the actor and actress of your retreat, and the aim is to create an experience that reflects you. What’s my vision, what are my plans? Part-time work, self-employment, volunteering, mentoring, family, leisure, travel: there are as many ways to give meaning to your life as there are retired people!
Social ties, financial situation and state of health are all factors frequently cited as having an impact on retirement, which is a period of loss of roles and occupations (e.g. professional life, work colleagues). However, research shows that planning for retirement requires much more than just financial preparation. Individuals must undergo a modification of their activities that goes beyond filling their time or “keeping busy”. They need to rediscover activities that are personally interesting, meaningful and that bring them physical and psychological well-being.
It’s important to recognize the diversity of retirement experiences. A person’s attitude and the values attached to their profession or work can have an impact on their experience of retirement, influencing it positively or negatively.
Here are a few suggestions to help you make a positive transition to retirement:
- Planning: preparation and anticipation can play a crucial role in your successful transition to retirement. That said, even with the best planning, it’s impossible to predict the future, and many unforeseen events can arise. That’s why it’s important to be resilient and work on your ability to adapt to any challenges that may arise.
- Social support: support from family, friends and peers is a key factor in your adaptation to retirement. In this sense, it can be beneficial to create new social ties outside of work.
- Activities: a good balance between your various pre-retirement occupations (e.g. working, cooking, personal care, hobbies, walking, reading, going out with friends, etc.) can help ensure a smooth transition. To do this, indulge in a good quantity, variety and diversity of activities in parallel with your work. This exploration will enable you to discover meaningful new passions, expand your interests and forge new social relationships.
- Transferable skills: skills developed during your career can be transferred to your new retirement lifestyle. Use them in your new occupations (teamwork, communication, commitment, leadership, planning, organization, motivation, etc.).
The importance of meaningful activities in daily life
According to the Ordre des ergothérapeutes du Québec, it is beneficial to incorporate one or more meaningful activities into one’s schedule to give meaning and purpose to one’s day. Engaging in meaningful occupations is essential to well-being and health. In particular, it can
- improve quality of life and health
- help overcome depression;
- release tension and energize;
- reduce everyday stress and anxiety;
- bring meaning to life;
- provide well-being;
- contribute to a sense of self-efficacy;
- increase self-confidence and self-esteem;
- nurture social life;
- foster resilience in the face of adversity;
- foster a sense of belonging;
- encourage mindfulness
Obstacles and solutions
Here, in conclusion, are a few obstacles frequently encountered during the transition to retirement, along with some possible solutions to overcome them:
- Loss of social environment: develop various social ties outside work before retirement.
- Change of identity: redefine yourself through your occupations and use your transferable skills to engage in new activities and forge new lifestyle habits.
- Modification of routine: create a new framework for life based on new occupations and roles.
- Emotional management: develop different means of emotional regulation (e.g., practicing mindfulness, keeping an emotional diary) and good sleep hygiene.
- Social status and peer recognition: find other ways to get involved, such as volunteering.
Pain can also complicate the transition to retirement. Here are some additional solutions that may be helpful:
- Consult healthcare professionals for an appropriate pain management plan, including physical approaches (e.g. massage), adapted exercises and relaxation techniques.
- Incorporate stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing.
- Join support groups for people with chronic pain.
- Respect your medication plan and discuss with your doctor and pharmacist the possibility of adjusting your doses or changing your treatment if necessary.
In conclusion, most retirement planners focus on the financial aspect, but occupational therapists know that how we use our time and what activities we participate in are essential if we are to remain healthy, happy and meaningfully engaged throughout the process. These health professionals can be invaluable allies as you make the transition to retirement. Your hobbies have a definite impact on your health and well-being. Keep yourself busy!
