Retirees Changing the Marketplace

Those 10,000 new retirees a day offer an interesting view of how the world is changing. Markets are more and more motivated by those who are retired or on the doorstep of retiring. The number of commercials on air can be gauged by the theme of those commercials. More and more of them emphasize drug company products. Some have been adequately tested. Others, only one can wonder.

Almost as soon as another disease is discussed and belabored, another “cure” or treatment is available. Has there been ample time given to the possible side affects and pronounced problems that may be associated with this newest “pill?”

We took my 92 year old mother to her new physician for an initial visit the other day. She, the doctor, was quite thorough and very well informed on geriatric conditions. She recommended eliminating some meds Mom was taking and reducing others. She explained why as well. I found that I was taking some of those meds and summarily changed my regimen. One I was taking, I found I can’t do without. But, how often are meds cross-referenced to discover the potential problems they may stimulate?

Amazingly, there is a whole cadre of issues that affect us as seniors. We are introduced to certain “helpful” meds and they seem to become a part of our daily routine, never reviewed or changed or in any way altered. Is this wise?

Retirement Changes Life Routines

Retirees also begin facing other dynamics as they move from the actively engaged world to a less demanding and more predictable existence. Activity, for the senior, may need to be redefined. Exercise, perhaps surprisingly, may take on different forms. Diet, in order to keep a comfortable and steady weight, needs to be examined.

One’s social circle likely changes as well. This may mean giving up some of the friends previously enjoyed. What you have in common with others changes as your own daily agenda changes. If you do not move, this may be less true. Moving, of course, introduces multiple changes and adjustments. Be ready for the implications of a move. They are many and require major revision of behaviors and routines.

Remember the persons who are important in your life. Maintain contact with them. Establish a pattern for frequent interaction. Your life changes should accommodate their need to keep up with you and your “new life.”

Establish ways to be aware of your changing health issues, needs and potential problems. Annual physicals should, of course, be continued. Dental, vision and other checkups should be high on the priority list. You will miss such essential once-overs at your own peril.

Look for new interests, which will give your new environment more satisfaction for enjoyment and pleasure.

Finally, make choices and decisions based upon your own needs and that of your partner’s. Life will change at retirement, but it need not be an introduction to drudgery and stale routine. Be aware of the new demands which will take some attention to meet and address. Take into account what you have wanted to do and do it. Be creative and open to new adventures. Open more windows. Breath the morning air. Listen to the birds. Hum Louis Armstrong’s favorite melody, “It’s a wonderful world.”