News You Can Use

7 Keys to Retirement

The Richmond Times-Dispatch suggests seven key things to do and to know about later life.

1. Schedule leisure time.

Most retirees say that strong relationships and peaceful time alone are the best parts of late life. Make new friends and find a variety of leisure interests.
 
2. Take responsibility for your health.

Join the happy health-wise minority with a good diet, aerobic and strength-building exercise routines, sufficient sleep, regular physicals, and a stress-relieving, smokeless lifestyle.
 
3. Get real about retirement finances.

If you aren’t already there, start saving, and investing for retirement now. Most people will also need to work beyond age 65, depending on the lifestyle they desire, the savings they have already accumulated, and their state of health.
 
4. Arrange for easy mobility.

Install a main-floor full bath, and position furniture to allow walking in straight paths without having to twist or duck. Eliminate booby traps such as slippery rugs and loose cords.
 
5. Take care of legal affairs.

Prepare and execute wills, powers of attorney, healthcare powers of attorney, advance directives, and any other documents you might need in every "what-if" scenario you can imagine.
 
6. Plan for disability.

Research long-term care insurance and Medicaid options. Ask your doctor how you can avoid dementia and other debilitating diseases and conditions.
 
7. Discuss caregiving early.

Develop strong relationships with family and friends so they will be there when you need them.