Surviving, Striving and Thriving at Sixty-Five and Beyond

On Jan. 1, 2011, the first of 78 million baby boomers turn 65, according to an article recently published in the AARP Bulletin. It is estimated that more than 10,000 boomers a day, for the next 18 years will reach that status. One person in 5 will be 65+ by the time the last baby boomer becomes 65. Those are some very impressive facts and figures, I'd say. I, as well as I'm sure many of the rest of you out there, hope to keep adding more years to that age 65 figure, as long as we're healthy and able to continue to live the "good life".

There are a lot of stumbling blocks in many of our paths as we reach that age called senior citizen that we may have to overcome. Vanishing pensions, loss of our home value, rising health care costs, possible cuts in Social Security and Medicare and Medicaid are just a few of the obstacles the 65+ generation could be facing.

Many of us from this "Beatles Generation", including my own household, liked to live beyond our means and didn't really worry about what life would be like after we retired. All of a sudden in the blink of an eye, we reached that golden age. Fortunately for us, with our health pretty much intact, monthly retirement and social security checks, and semi-retirement jobs we're still able to enjoy and be fulfilled pretty much everyday during these senior years. We do wish we would have had a little bigger nest-egg to fall back on, but as we all know we can't turn back the clock, so we just do the best with what we have and thank God for everyday he gives us.

One of the most important things we can do to ensure we get the most out of those 65+ years is to take care of our health. Exercise, as we all know, is a big part of that. There are health clubs and fitness centers galore out there to help senior citizens maintain their good health. Many senior insurance plans will help with the fees of those fitness centers I have found. If it isn't possible for you to enjoy the benefits of a fitness center or health club due to financial costs or for any other reason, you can always walk for exercise. Walking doesn't cost you a dime. Keeping stress at bay and regular medical exams and diet are also very important for you to be able thrive and enjoy all life has to offer no matter your age.

Financial struggles may be an issue for many baby boomers, especially the way the economy is today. Downsizing our home may be one option to help us get through. Taking on a part-time job could also be a consideration, although they are becoming more scare too. We have taken both of these steps and are well satisfied with those decisions. Use all those discounts that are available to seniors today. We've earned them so why not use them. There are plenty of them out there which can be used for travel, dining out, lodging, senior days offered by many retail shops etc. As an old saying goes," a penny saved is a penny earned".

Staying active is another goal many of us seniors need to keep mind. It stimulates the body both mentally and physically, I feel. Weather it's a morning walk, a game of cards, traveling, volunteering, grandparenting(one of favorite activities) or any number of other things that involve interaction with other individuals can help to keep us from getting bored. Boredom can lead to depression and that could lead to a number of other medical issues. Whatever your financial situation, I think we can all find something out there to keep us active.

Surviving, striving and thriving in my senior years is my main goal in life right now. I look forward to and relish getting everything I possibly can out of each and everyday, however many they may be.

Source: AARPBulletin/Jan.-Feb.2011
personal experience