Thinking ahead to retirement, many of us:

Imagined that every day would be Saturday – unencumbered and ours alone to define. Thought that once we crossed the finish line, time would be more malleable – ours alone to fill. Hoped that the constancy of emailing, texting and zooming would be ours alone to determine.

Ours alone looked like a future where every day would indeed be Saturday once the rest was blessedly behind us. 

Self Care, Caregiver or Both?

Well, here’s a reality check – while illness or chronic limiting conditions aren’t inevitable as we age, they are commonplace. In fact, the National Council on Aging notes that nearly 95% of adults 60 and older have at least one chronic condition, and nearly 80% have two or more. The most common of these include: 

• Arthritis
• Heart disease
• Hypertension 
• Cancer
• Type 2 diabetes
• Dementia
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Depression
• Hearing loss
• Cataracts and refractive errors
• Back and neck pain
• Osteoarthritis 

And yet, few talk about the practical and emotional aspects of preparing for a stage in life that will likely require:

• a great deal more and different forms of self care
• assuming the role of caregiver for a partner or family member
• doing both, simultaneously.

My tell me the truth girl inquiry – not to mention my own lived experience – tells me that the checklist that framed your everyday for the past, oh, 40 years or so will suddenly or eventually be populated with a whole new set of urgencies and to dos, so get ready!  

Truism #1: Not Every Day is Saturday

Not every day is Saturday in retirement when managing chronic limiting conditions is in play. I’m sorry, but there you have it. That’s because most of the work of “managing” takes place on familiar terrain – ye old Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. That’s something you know well, so, plan to tap into the same skills that made you effective in managing your professional work – project management, time management, being proactive and having the mindset of a team player. Trust me, you will need those front desk people, schedulers, nurses and therapists to help you navigate the healthcare system as you face new and ongoing challenges. Show your appreciation for their role in your journey and always treat them well. 

Also, be sure to use a calendar system that works for you, whether that’s your ubiquitous phone or a ginormous desk or wall calendar. Trust me, you will need to refer, coordinate and juggle – especially if you are tending to your own issues as well as those of a loved one.  

Truism #2: Your “Tribe” Matters More Than Ever

You know the mantra: “It takes a village.” Almost always, when you are there for a neighbor, a neighbor will be there for you. Ensuring that you have people to reach out to for emotional support and for practical hands on help will be key to your sanity! Our people all live elsewhere which is why our home is filled with Hallmark greeting cards and small “thinking of you” gifts. These, along with the “call me when you need me” help from those nearby is priceless.  

Truism #3: Taking Care of Yourself is Key to Your Health and Peace of Mind

I know, we get really tired of hearing this. But, this wise counsel is both spot on and timeless. While self care is individual, common actions you can engage in include things like:

• Eating healthy foods 
• Working out regularly 
• Taking time to relax
• Journaling 
• Being with friends
• Making time for your special hobby
• Finding peaceful solitude

I “trick” myself into “working out regularly” by doing a 10-minute online video. Because 10 minutes? I can do that! Or take “being with friends.” I have a standing call with a dear friend in Massachusetts every Saturday afternoon. It’s a “date” that only an emergency can interrupt.

While every day may not be Saturday in retirement, you can equip yourself for an awesome journey ahead.