The golden years – here we come!

“There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age.” – Sophia Loren

These are wise words from someone who embodied beauty and elegance throughout her life, and especially growing old.
Many elders shy away from discussing old age. On one’s way to retirement, it may well be a taboo topic for conversation, but growing old is as real as the inevitable death of your physical body.

The secret to a golden age is to live before you die. Live while you are young and continue living while you get older. The ancients suggest that we live in the moment. This makes life a series of moments filled with miracles and joy, even during those not-so-happy challenges.

One needs to plan for retirement. This is important and will cause less stress and worry, and it will allow you to perhaps pursue those things you never had time for: travel, new hobbies or even starting a new business or NPO.

It has been suggested that by 2030, 76% of baby boomers will reach the age of 65. With the advances in health and medical technology, people live longer, so you have to plan. Life expectancy in 2010 was 78 years of age. Today it is probably even higher. So, can you afford to retire at 78, or are you still fit and active to continue working?

If at 65 you are still in good health and blessed with a clear mind, what does your bucket list look like?

Think about it, and while you are at it, here is an important to-do list that, once you have checked all or most things, will guarantee you less stress and much more enjoyment.

• If you are a home buddy, prepare your home accordingly. Stay away from stairs and uneven surfaces.
• Settle your debt before you retire.
• Ensure that your will is prepared.
• Create a paper file with a list of all your policies (keep policy files in the same folder). Make a list with all your social media passwords and bank account pin numbers, and store this in a safe place, where your children will know to find it. Include the keys or number for the safe.
• Keep copies of IDs, passports and driving licences in this file.
• If you have none, start an exercise regime and ensure that you sleep at least eight hours a night.
• Review your medical aid with the help of a knowledgeable consultant.
• Include in your file a complete list of all your investments and the contact details of the consultants you have been working with.
• A list of emergency contact numbers will be worth its weight in gold.
• If you are so inclined, leave a living will. This will, when required, make decision-making within the family a lot less stressful.
• Discuss this with your kids and add anything they may consider important.

Once you have done all of this, give yourselves a night on the town to celebrate a new beginning. Because it might just exceed your wildest expectations!

And remember: be good, even and especially when you are bad!