Millions of baby boomers will be completing 65 revolutions around the sun this year. In the UK, turning 65 is a huge milestone for more than one reason. Not only are you just one year away from officially retiring from a corporate job and receiving a pension, but this new 'senior-level' position means new opportunities are on the horizon. It's a good time to sit and think about the changes you'll be facing in your life over the next five to ten years. These changes may impact your health, well-being and finances. At the same time, you also want to make the most of the benefits that come with this age. But don't see this new milestone as a potential speed-breaker. You can continue to enjoy life like you used to, only with some minor adjustments and tweaks. Here's a list of 6 things to do after your 65th birthday.
1. Plan Your Estate
Sixty-five may be the new forty-five, but there are many things you need to think about once you're just a step away from retirement. The first is planning your estate. At first, it may sound like a cliched piece of advice, but planning your estate is of the utmost importance, and the need for estate planning grows as you age. As many as one in three UK adults aged over 55 and over don't have a will, also known as a last will and testament. This alarming statistic is a clear sign of the lack of awareness about wills, why they're important, and how simple the will-making process is. Thanks to online legal services, it's quick and easy to write a will online on a trusted website, in about the same amount of time you would spend watching a movie. Death and anything related to it is a topic most want to avoid. However, dying without a will in place can invite troubles for your dependents at a time when they're vulnerable and struggling to cope with the loss. Even if you don't have a long list of priceless assets to pass on, creating a will will prevent your assets from being divided unfairly and against your wishes. Power of attorney and trusts are the other two estate planning instruments to consider in addition to drafting a will. If you can help it, don't wait until your 65th birthday and plan your estate today.
2. Make Time for Sports and Activities
Hitting the ripe old age of 65 doesn't mean putting a full stop to your physical activities and personal interests. The phrase "use it or lose it" comes into play, especially in the later years of life. Physical activity grows in importance as you age, so don't stop moving. Maintain your interest in sports and other physical activities, even post-65. Whether you go nine-pin bowling with your friends or indulge in a corporate Christmas party with your colleagues in an outdoor venue, don't hold back from doing activities that you enjoy and embrace your youthful and playful side to the fullest. Age is a mere number for those seeking adventure and fun. Regular activities in sports and recreation keep you moving more and more often, something that's required in your sixties and beyond. Routine sports activities also keep your muscles and joint health in check at an age where you're prone to falls and accidents.
3. Build Something of Your Own
How often have you had an idea or desire to build something, but put it off for later and never revisited the thought? You're not alone. You may have countless ideas to try and build something on your own, but lack of time and growing responsibilities meant pushing it for retirement days. If you're closer to retirement and have time for yourself, don't hold back and start something of your own. Build on your existing profession or take a chance to start something new. It could be a new business like a pottery studio or a hobby like a vegetable patch to nurture your green thumbs. Next, find the required tools and resources to get started on your idea. If you're looking to build a vegetable garden on your allotment land, refer to a beginner's allotment plan for a step-by-step approach. Likewise, to establish a pottery studio, first start taking pottery classes if you're new to the activity and build up to buying and setting up a pottery table in your garage. Do spread the word with your friends, family, neighbours and the community about your initiative, and invite them to be a part of it. It's another great way to bond with your family and other like-minded people over a shared interest. By embracing what you love and are interested in, you learn to keep yourself happy, and purposeful and find more meaning in your life in your sixties and beyond.
4. Travel Often
If you're without a plan and still wondering what to do after your 65th birthday, then take to travelling the world. There are so many places to explore! If international travel seems difficult, set out on an adventure to revisit the places in the UK you've visited long ago. Observe if they've changed over the years or remained frozen in time. Even if you're visiting the same few touristy cities and towns, take a road less travelled or an eatery less talked about. You'll be surprised to see a whole different side to the place you think you know, like the back of your hand. Wherever you go, ensure you carry your belongings and valuables in a sturdy carry-on bag with top-notch security features. You don't want to be fretting over the security of your belongings during your journey. Travel is also about wearing your personality. When shopping for luggage, feel free to move away from the bland and boring monochromes to choose an unconventional design and pattern that talks about your travel style and personality. Whether it is a boho luggage bag with a pattern inspired by the Boho culture of Meso-America or an alluring Indian henna pattern on a backpack, let your luggage have a story to tell about you and your journeys.
5. Give back to the Community
See your senior years as an opportunity to give back to the community like any good citizen would. It starts with simple acts of kindness and generosity towards people in your own neighbourhood, county, or city. You can start by volunteering at the local school, hospital, community centre, or for a local charity or offer professional services based off of the skills you have acquired pro bono. This could include helping with accounting and filing taxes for those who cannot afford the fees. Teaching and mentoring can also contribute and make a difference in the lives of others. Besides, you can always start right at home. For instance, why not ask your relatives and friends if you can support them in any capacity? Let them know you're available and willing to help out, whether it's to fill up as an emergency sitter for your grandchildren or helping a friend in a landscaping project.
6. Beat Loneliness and Focus on Your Mental Health
Loneliness is a disease that often and unfortunately plagues the elderly. Feeling lonely can take a hit on your mental health and well-being. Losing a loved one can make it more difficult to stay hopeful and positive. Moreover, people in their fifties and sixties often go through health issues, making support and care essential. It's very important to focus on your mental well-being along with maintaining your physical fitness. Eating regular nutrient-rich meals, sleeping on time, interacting with your loved ones, and connecting with new people are some ways to beat loneliness and keep your mental health in check.
Summing Up
It's good to plan ahead about what you need to do to keep those retirement years full and vibrant. The great thing about getting older is that you benefit from the rich experience and knowledge of life-changing events and know what to anticipate in life. If you're closer to your sixty-fifth birthday, take this an opportunity to sit, reflect and evaluate your personal goals. See these years as a time to focus on yourself and make the most of your golden years.
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