January 10, 2024 —Do you have an impending retirement coming up or find yourself newly retired? The emotions that arise during this time can be interesting to navigate. After all, it is a new chapter in your life that you are about to embark on.
If you are experiencing feelings of uncertainty, restlessness, or lack of a sense of purpose, you may be going through what’s commonly known as Sudden Retirement Syndrome (SRS) amongst the retiree demographic. Don’t worry – this is not a diagnosable medical or psychological condition. It’s more of a catch-all term used to describe the feelings of disorientation and psychological impact that some individuals experience when they retire, especially if retirement comes unexpectedly or without adequate preparation.
At Kendal on Hudson, we understand what you are going through. It’s why our retirement lifestyle is filled with meaningful activities that bring joy to residents’ everyday lives. Learn more about SRS, below, and how our community provides social support to help combat the feelings associated with it.
Symptoms of Sudden Retirement Syndrome
The experience of retirement can vary widely among older adults, as it depends on various factors like personalities, financial situations, health issues, and how well they have prepared for retirement. Below are nine common experiences or “symptoms” of SRS that older adults may go through post-retirement:
1. Emotional Adjustment
Retirement is a major life transition that can bring about a range of emotions. Some individuals may feel a sense of relief and excitement about the newfound downtime, while others may experience a sense of loss or identity crisis, particularly if a significant part of their identities were tied to their careers.
2. More Leisure Time
With the end of a regular, predictable work schedule, retirees often have more leisure time. Some may use this time to pursue hobbies, travel, or spend more time with friends and family.
3. Financial Considerations
We recommend working with a financial planner and family members to determine how your accounts and assets will contribute to a retirement lifestyle in a senior living community.
4. Social Changes
Work often provides a social structure, and retirement may lead to changes in regular social interactions. Older adults may need to actively seek out new social connections, whether through community activities, seasonal or part-time jobs, clubs, or other social groups.
5. Changes in Health and Wellness
Retirees may experience changes in both physical and mental health and wellness. Some may find more time to focus on physical fitness, while others may face health challenges that come with aging, and even retirement depression. Access to healthcare services and insurance becomes a significant consideration during this chapter of life. At Kendal on Hudson, we have a variety of senior wellness programs that keep residents in top shape physically and mentally.
6. Rediscovering Passions
Retirement can provide an opportunity for individuals to find engagement with life or rediscover passions and interests that may have taken a back seat during their working years.
7. Cognitive Stimulation
The absence of daily work-related tasks may prompt some retirees to seek out activities that provide cognitive stimulation, such as taking classes, learning new skills, watching TV, or engaging in other mentally stimulating hobbies. In fact, lifelong learning for older adults is a pillar of our community.
8. Time Spent With Family
Retirement often allows for increased time spent with family members, especially children and grandchildren. This can be a rewarding aspect of retirement for many individuals. In fact, it’s one of the reasons many older adults consider early retirement.
9. Volunteerism
Some retirees find purpose and fulfillment in giving back to their communities through volunteer work. This can also provide a sense of structure and social connection they crave.
It’s important to note that retirement is a highly individual experience, and people may go through different stages of adjustment. Some individuals adapt well to the changes, while others may face challenges. Support from family, friends, therapists, or community caregivers can be beneficial during this transition period.
How Life at Kendal on Hudson Helps Prevent Sudden Retirement Syndrome
We pride ourselves on providing older adults with an active lifestyle and endless opportunities to live a fulfilling retirement. We cater to many interests and personalities and are constantly growing alongside residents’ needs and desires. Below are just some of the ways residents find joy and purpose in retirement at Kendal on Hudson:
- Sunday at the Opera
- Film groups
- Concert groups
- Poetry groups
- Lifelong learning classes
- Continued learning partnership with Pace University
- Special interest groups for quilting, reading, table tennis, chess, and more pursuits
- Fitness, health, and wellness opportunities like aqua aerobics classes, hiking, Zumba, and meditation
- Car or train rides to the city
- Exploring Sleepy Hollow, NY’s many area attractions
Moving to a retirement community helps combat the feelings that come with SRS. With a wide array of services and amenities that make life worry-free, what’s not to love about a future at Kendal on Hudson?
Retire Without Worry at Kendal on Hudson
The residents of Kendal on Hudson are a like-minded group of people committed to the Quaker values of giving back to the community, staying engaged in programming and events, and keeping their bodies active. Make the most of your retirement at the community that cares about the light within each person. Call 833-235-5850 today to schedule a personal tour so that you may never have to experience SRS.