You are turning 65 at a rate of 10,000 per day (born between 1946 and 1964). That means that you have both earned and have joined the ranks of senior citizenhood with all its rights and privileges(Baby boomer | Definition, Age Range, & Societal and Economic Impact | Britannica). A time when good health becomes priority number one if you desire to live a quality life of independence. Here at FSRC, we want you to have a clear understanding that becoming a senior citizen does not mean one should expect to deteriorate or live a lesser quality of life. Your senior years should truly be your golden years. Allow your years of experience to become your leverage for how you live your later years! I want to share with you from my experience and observation what I feel is the most important choice one can make to remain independent. Note that if you follow this advice, it will carry you a long way towards making your later years healthy years as well enjoyable.
Dear Baby Boomer:
Wisdom for shelter
Wisdom screams "Get a retirement plan". Planning ahead is essential for a successful retirement. You should think about your financial and personal goals, as well as your health and living arrangements. Some people choose to downsize their homes or move to a different location when they retire, while others may prefer to stay close to their family and friends. If you have health problems that limit your independence, you may want to consider an assisted living facility or other support services. Whatever you decide, make sure you have a clear vision of your future and how you will achieve it. Don't let retirement catch you off guard.
Listen with your heart to this advice given by Yeshua through a parable in the Holy Scriptures and prosper. The Two Foundations – “So everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, will be like a wise man [a far-sighted, practical, and sensible man] who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods and torrents came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not do them, will be like a foolish (stupid) man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods and torrents came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house, and it fell—and great and complete was its fall.” (Mat. 7-24-27 NOG)
We have done some research for you and found some useful links (click on resource button) that can help you plan for your retirement. Remember, don't let yourself get stressed out by the choices you have to make. You are just acting wisely.
Wisdom for Medical care
The baby boomer generation is getting older, and that means they need more healthcare services. But are they getting the care they deserve? Some experts say no. They argue that the healthcare system is not prepared for the growing demand of aging boomers, who have more chronic conditions and complex needs than previous generations. The increasing prevalence of auto-immune diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, which require ongoing management and coordination of care. The rising demand for long-term care services, such as home health, assisted living, and nursing homes, which are often costly and limited in availability. The growing need for preventive and wellness services, such as screenings, vaccinations, and lifestyle interventions, which can help reduce the risk of disease and disability. The changing role of family caregivers, who often provide unpaid support and assistance to their aging relatives, but may face physical, emotional, and financial stress. Baby boomers face barriers to access, such as high costs, long wait times, and lack of insurance. How can we improve the situation? Some possible solutions are increasing funding for Medicare and Medicaid, expanding home-based and community-based care, investing in preventive and wellness programs, and training more geriatric specialists. By taking these steps, we can ensure that aging boomers get the quality healthcare they need and want. FSRC has researched and selectively chosen some relevant resources that may be very helpful toward you receiving quality healthcare.
Wisdom for Mental health
Baby Boomers are facing a unique challenge as they age: how to maintain their mental health and well-being in a rapidly changing world. Mental disorders affect one in four people at some point in their lives, and older adults are no exception. Some of the common mental health issues that affect aging baby boomers are depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, and substance abuse. These conditions can have a significant impact on the quality of life, social relationships, and physical health of older adults. Therefore, it is important for aging baby boomers to seek help when they experience mental health problems, and to adopt healthy lifestyle habits that can prevent or reduce the risk of developing them. Some of the strategies that can promote mental health and well-being among aging baby boomers are:
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Staying physically active and engaging in regular exercise.
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Maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet.
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Keeping a positive outlook and coping with stress effectively.
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Seeking social support and staying connected with family and friends.
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Pursuing meaningful activities and hobbies that provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
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Learning new skills and challenging the brain.
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Seeking professional help when needed and following the treatment plan.
Check out our FSRC resource page to receive carefully selected links to simple but very relevant resources that may be very helpful toward receiving quality mental care.
Let's get physical
Physical activity is one of the most important things that Baby Boomers can do for their health. It can prevent or delay many of the health problems that come with age, such as heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and dementia. It can also improve their strength, balance, energy, mood, and quality of life. According to the CDC, adults aged 65 and older need at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (such as brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (such as jogging) per week, plus muscle-strengthening and balance activities on two or more days per week. By staying physically active, senior citizens can maintain their independence and enjoy their golden years.
You can find some helpful tips and resources on our website resource board to guide you and motivate you as you create your own unique program.