When planning for your federal retirement, you’re likely focusing on financial factors such as the amount of your FERS annuity (pension) and your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) nest egg. Then again, good health plays an equally important role in your retirement because, without it, health problems can end up costing a lot more than you realize.
Before You Retire, Get A Comprehensive Health Work-Up
According to John Hopkins, research has shown that simply leaving the working world may increase the risk for heart disease and other medical conditions by 40%. In the years leading up to retirement, take advantage of annual wellness exams fully covered by your FEHB insurance plan. Make sure you get a full blood panel to see if you’re on the brink of potential issues like diabetes and high blood pressure.
Also let your doctor know about any health conditions that may run in the family like cancer or congestive heart failure. Catching issues early and getting preventive care reduces the risk of age-related diseases and physical disabilities down the road in retirement.
“When you retire, you’ll appreciate having built these local community and social connections.”
Take A Proactive Approach To Wellness
Once you have a good idea of any potential health issues as you age, get proactive and make the necessary changes for a better state of overall wellness. Start cooking healthier meals at home to help you lose weight and lower your blood pressure. When you cut back on dining at restaurants or eating take-out-food, you can save some money in addition to eliminating calories.
Look for ways to exercise that you can continue to enjoy well into retirement. Consider joining a walking club or bowling team and make new friends along the way. When you retire, you’ll appreciate having built these local community and social connections.
Plan Ahead For Having More Free Time
If you don’t have a plan for the extra free time you’ll have on your hands, it may trigger anxiety and depression. Many retirees feel a loss of identity once they’re no longer defined by their career. To help successfully navigate your retirement years, put together a plan that includes meaningful ways to maintain a positive outlook and good self esteem. Think about becoming a mentor for kids or a volunteer at an animal shelter. Or, return to school to explore an area of study that’s always interested you. There are any number of ways to give yourself a sense of purpose once you retire.
As you can see, planning your federal retirement isn’t only about saving enough money. It’s important to have a plan that prepares you for the health-related effects of ending your career.
