Ask James
James is a retired counselor who continues to use his skills on an informal basis. He has offered to answer some readers' questions for PARC.
Q: I've read that retirement is one of the most stressful things in life—right up there with divorce and the death of a friend. It's been easy for me so far. Am I missing something?
A: Retirement is stressful for many people. In fact, about 1 in 3 people who retire find it difficult. Whether or not retirement becomes a stressful life event depends on several factors. For instance, it's most stressful for people who have to retire unexpectedly; for those who have financial and marital concerns; and for those who struggle with depression. I'm glad you're one of the lucky ones. Count your blessings!
Q: All my life, I've thought of retirement as a reward for many years of hard work. I hoped to be able to travel and live somewhere warm after I stopped working. Now retirement is here and I don't have as much money as I hoped to have. I need to stay in the northeast because I have a disabled daughter who needs to stay here for care. People tell me to take a break, but how can I make that happen?
A: Look into the Elderhostel program. It's an inexpensive way to travel with other seniors. You'll have the chance to get away, see new places, and make new friends. You can write to Elderhostel at 75 Federal St., Boston, MA 02110-1941 or check out their website: www.elderhostel.org.
Q: I was ready to retire from firefighting, but I find life empty without a job to go to every day. I guess I shouldn't complain—I'm still pretty healthy. But I'm bored sitting around watching TV all day and sitting in the donut shop with my friends. I'm really beginning to feel like an old man!
A: Being retired from work doesn't mean that you have to retire from life. In fact, going from an active job as a firefighter to a sedentary life of sitcoms and donuts is a sure recipe for unhappiness! It's time to find a hobby, do some traveling, or volunteer in your community. I bet there's a school in your town that would love to use you as a resource. Call a principal and ask if you can talk with the children about fire safety. Whatever you do, get moving!
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