At 92, Ike Baker refuses to retire. He’s been a host at McDonalds in Dayton, Tennessee, for the past 21 years and intends to continue for another 10. He greets customers with a smile and a cheery word, making sure they have everything they need, and may be one of the oldest workers at the fast food chain, according to this report.
The Korean War veteran is one of a growing number of retirees who just won’t retire. Many believe giving up work is detrimental to their well-being – citing loss of identity, structure, status and social isolation….and they may be right.
The benefits of working
Author Michelle Pannor Silver interviewed dozens of doctors, academics, chief executives and homemakers aged over 65 for her new book ‘Retirement and Its Discontents. Why We Won’t Stop Working, Even If We Can.’ She discovered that many interviewees felt rudderless and unfulfilled, mourning their loss of identity.
“I was surprised by the CEOS who were disconnected in retirement and couldn’t wait to find some paid work that was fulfilling for them. Volunteering wasn’t going to cut it,” she told Forbes. “They spent their adulthood being shaped and cultivated by work,” she said, noting that many once had assistants to organize their schedules and, in retirement, they did not know how to use personal planning devices and were embarrassed by missing appointments.
One academic described his leaving party as “like a funeral,” where everyone talked about him as though he was dead. He planned to write historical novels but couldn’t get started. Ultimately, he decided to continue the research he considered to be his life’s work.
What, me retire?
Retiring never crossed Marie Hainline’s mind. Now 94, she’s thought to be the oldest working waitress in Iowa, doing two lunch shifts a week at the Bonaparte Retreat in rural Bonaparte, according to this report. She started working there in 1984 after new regulations, including age restrictions, forced her to close the nursing home she’d owned for 20 years with her husband Bruce.
Rose Hendricks, who owns the diner, says the always-smiling Hainline attracts customers with her laughter and chatter. “She’s more than dependable. She would work here every day if I let her,” Hendricks says. Wise-cracking Hainline, who grew up on a farm milking cows and feeding chickens from an early age, is a classic example of aging with attitude.
She insists it’s not just about the money, although “every bit helps.” For her it’s the social interactions with co-workers and customers. “I should pay Rose to work here,” the great-great grandmother says.
How to prepare
Pannor Silver recommends would-be retirees make lists of things they enjoy doing, like playing the piano or cooking, to help the transition from full-time employment. “It doesn’t have to be something you’re good at, just something that interests you. Then channel the energy you used at work,” she says.
Wealth management executive Patti Black suggests people talk to retirement coaches and make the transition slowly. For instance, if someone plans to drive across the US in a recreational vehicle, she believes it is worth renting an RV for a few weeks just to make sure it is as enjoyable as expected. Retirees with no purpose can feel depressed; she recommends finding part-time work, going back to school volunteering or mentoring, according to her comments to Barron’s.
She says retirees also need to evolve and adapt after going through the initial three to six-month “honeymoon period” of retirement. She cites the example of Jerry Moebes, 78; he planned to expand his hobby restoring and selling antiques when he retired from a major life insurance company in 2006 but reinvented himself when the recession hit and prices dropped. Instead of feeling depressed he found new hobbies, including line dancing, goes to the gym six days a week and spends hours in his vegetable garden. “I would be having a very difficult retirement if I didn’t have all these separate interests,” he tells Barrons magazine.
How about you?
Many Senior Planet members have already taken this advice to heart, staying engaged and active through their membership activities, and even volunteering at Senior Planet…teaching line dancing like Deborah Gouge and Dean LeClaire, or digital photography like Judy Kramer, or helping to hold down the fort at the front desk, like NYC volunteer Barbara Lewers: “I have been volunteering at Senior Planet for over four years. I handle the front desk and sometimes serve as a greeter. Senior Planet is a warm, welcoming place and it makes me feel so very good to be a part of this community. I highly recommend volunteering at Senior Planet!”
You don’t have to be over 60 to volunteer, either – just ask our youngest volunteer, Noah.
Curious to know more about volunteering at Senior Planet? Visit one of our locations (list is here) and tell them you want to join up!
COMMENTS
One response to “Try Retirement 2.0!”
I completely relate to this article…mostly because I enjoy getting out and making money…I buy what I want and live comfortably…I have no plan to age like a dry prune and disappear…when you have plans and goals retirement is a joke…
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Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
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Morning Stretch
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Mandarin Multilingual Technology Program: 介紹: 智能手機的相機不只能用來拍照 (Smartphone Camera Uses Beyond Photography)
Mandarin Multilingual Technology Program: 介紹: 智能手機的相機不只能用來拍照 (Smartphone Camera Uses Beyond Photography)
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Stronger Bones
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Activate the joints and muscles and increase mental focus during this exercise class.
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Morning Stretch
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Introduction to Learning Apps – Languages & The Arts
Introduction to Learning Apps – Languages & The Arts
This presentation will introduce you to apps that help you learn different languages, explore the arts and art history, and even show you how to play instruments.
Smartphones at a Glance
Smartphones at a Glance
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Intro to Chatting with AI
Learn how to make the most out of ChatGPT and other AI software.
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Morning Stretch
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Virtual Tour: Belfast, Ireland
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Saving Money with Tech
Saving Money with Tech
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Internet of Things: Wearables
Internet of Things: Wearables
Learn about the health, wellness, and personal safety benefits of wearable technology.
Chair Yoga
Chair Yoga
Follow various cues to develop body alignment and breath awareness.
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Morning Stretch
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Internet of Things: Healthcare
Internet of Things: Healthcare
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Introducción a la IA
Introducción a la IA
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Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Relax your mind and strengthen your body with this gentle exercise class.
Introduction to Heart Rate Monitor Apps
Introduction to Heart Rate Monitor Apps
Did you know your phone can measure your heart rate? Learn about free heart rate monitor apps and why they can be useful.
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Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
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Morning Stretch
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Functional Strength Training
Use bodyweight, bands, and dumbbells to build your strength.
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
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Stronger Bones
Stronger Bones
Activate the joints and muscles and increase mental focus during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
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Introduction to Heart Rate Monitor Apps
Introduction to Heart Rate Monitor Apps
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Did you know your phone can measure your heart rate? Learn about free heart rate monitor apps and why they can be useful.
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iPhones
In this lecture you’ll learn about the latest iPhone, its features and what to consider if you’re thinking of buying one.
Chair Yoga
Chair Yoga
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Morning Stretch
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Introduction to Estate Planning Resources & Tools
Introduction to Estate Planning Resources & Tools
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A simple plan is better than no plan! Get to know a few free and low-cost resources that make it simple to plan your estate.
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
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智能手機攝影簡介
智能手機攝影簡介
在手機上也可以照下專頁的圖片!如果您對您手機上的這個功能還不清楚的話,您可別錯過這堂講座喔!
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Anti-Virus & Malware Removal Programs At a Glance
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Concerned about viruses and malware? Attend this lecture to learn how to keep your device safe!
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Balance/Strength
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Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Podcasts at a Glance
Podcasts at a Glance
Learn what Podcasts are and where to find them!
Introduction to Booking Vacation Stays Online
Introduction to Booking Vacation Stays Online
Need a vacation? Learn about popular websites and apps for booking vacation rentals.
Chair Yoga
Chair Yoga
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Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
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Introducción a chatear con IA
Introducción a chatear con IA
Aprenda cómo aprovechar al máximo ChatGPT y otros software de IA.
IoT: Smart Homes
IoT: Smart Homes
Want to live like the Jetsons? Learn how smart home technology is making that a reality!
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Relax your mind and strengthen your body with this gentle exercise class.
Tech Tips for Disaster Preparedness
Tech Tips for Disaster Preparedness
Technology can play an important role in making sure you’re prepared for an emergency. Come to this lecture to find out how.
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Morning Stretch
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Functional Strength Training
Functional Strength Training
Use bodyweight, bands, and dumbbells to build your strength.
Mindfulness Apps
Mindfulness Apps
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This lecture introduces mindfulness and its physical and mental benefits, such as reducing anxiety, improving memory, and lowering blood pressure.
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
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Stronger Bones
Stronger Bones
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Morning Stretch
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Online Rx Drug Resources
Online Rx Drug Resources
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Chair Yoga
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Morning Stretch
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Virtual Museum Tours
Virtual Museum Tours
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Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
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線上購物
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Intro to Smartphone Photography
Intro to Smartphone Photography
Say cheese! Learn more about your smartphone's camera.
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Balance/Strength
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Morning Stretch
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Messaging Apps
Messaging Apps
This lecture will go over the features of three widely-used apps: iMessages, Google Chats, and WhatsApp.
Intro to Selling Online
Intro to Selling Online
This lecture will introduce you to different online platforms for selling all kinds of items, including furniture, clothing, household items, and more.
Chair Yoga
Chair Yoga
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Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Introduction to Nextdoor
Introduction to Nextdoor
This presentation will introduce you to the most common uses for the Nextdoor app and its main features, along with some best practices for using it safely.
Usos cotidianos de la IA
Usos cotidianos de la IA
¡Todo el mundo habla de IA! Asista a esta clase para ver cómo la IA es parte de la vida cotidiana.
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Relax your mind and strengthen your body with this gentle exercise class.
All Things Zoom
All Things Zoom
This lecture will go over how to use Zoom to chat with friends & family, and take virtual classes with Senior Planet!
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Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
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Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
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Internet of Things at a Glance
Internet of Things at a Glance
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This lecture provides an overview of the vast world of the Internet of Things and discusses best practices for keeping your devices secure.
Functional Strength Training
Functional Strength Training
Use bodyweight, bands, and dumbbells to build your strength.
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
Get your heart pumping during this fun, high-energy workout!
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Stronger Bones
Stronger Bones
Activate the joints and muscles and increase mental focus during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Virtual Reality at a Glance
Virtual Reality at a Glance
Join us to learn about the exciting world of virtual reality and how you can experience it!
Internet of Things: Healthcare
Internet of Things: Healthcare
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Come learn how the medical industry is embracing the Internet of Things (IoT) technology to treat patients remotely.
Chair Yoga
Chair Yoga
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Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Video Chat
Video Chat
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Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
Get your heart pumping during this fun, high-energy workout!
YouTube
YouTube
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Social Media for Job Searches
Social Media for Job Searches
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Balance/Strength
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Morning Stretch
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Graphic Design Tools
Graphic Design Tools
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Introduction to TikTok
Introduction to TikTok
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Intro to X (formerly Twitter)
Intro to X (formerly Twitter)
Like to know what's happening? Come learn about X (formerly Twitter)!
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Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
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Generadores de imágenes de IA
Generadores de imágenes de IA
¡Consiga hacer algo más que figuras de palitos y haga que su imaginación cobre vida con generadores de imágenes de IA!
Intro to Gaming
Intro to Gaming
Game on! Come discover the world of gaming and start playing!
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Relax your mind and strengthen your body with this gentle exercise class.
Digital Legacy at a Glance
Digital Legacy at a Glance
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Stronger Bones
Stronger Bones
Activate the joints and muscles and increase mental focus during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
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Smartphone Camera Uses Beyond Photography
Smartphone Camera Uses Beyond Photography
Come learn about QR codes, augmented reality apps, and more!
How to Choose a New Computer
How to Choose a New Computer
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This informational session addresses some of the most common questions surrounding how to choose a new computer.
Chair Yoga
Chair Yoga
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Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Virtual Tour: Lima, Peru
Virtual Tour: Lima, Peru
Join Senior Planet and our tour guides from Discover Live for a virtual visit to Lima, Peru!
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
Get your heart pumping during this fun, high-energy workout!
訊息應用程式
訊息應用程式
這次的講座會談到三款普遍的應用程式:iMessages、 Google Chat 和 微信 WeChat。您會學到如何傳送訊息、圖片、使用音訊和視訊通話, 以及瞭解這些應用程式如何確保您的訊息安全。
Introduction to Learning Apps – Languages & The Arts
Introduction to Learning Apps – Languages & The Arts
This presentation will introduce you to apps that help you learn different languages, explore the arts and art history, and even show you how to play instruments.
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Balance/Strength
Balance/Strength
Activate the joints and muscles to become limber and increase balance during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Digital Tools to Boost your Business
Digital Tools to Boost your Business
Learn about online tools to jump-start your start-up.
Chair Yoga
Chair Yoga
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Saving Money with Tech
Saving Money with Tech
Explore ways that tech can help you save money and manage your finances!
11 events,
31
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Gardening Tech At a Glance
Gardening Tech At a Glance
Can tech give you a green thumb? Come to this lecture to find out!
¿Es eso IA?
¿Es eso IA?
¿Podemos realmente creer lo que vemos? ¡Venga a esta clase para acostumbrarse a reconocer la IA!
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Relax your mind and strengthen your body with this gentle exercise class.
Understanding Bluetooth
Understanding Bluetooth
We’ll explain Bluetooth technology, how it works, and the way it impacts everyday life.
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Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Morning Stretch
MyChart
Functional Strength Training
Mandarin Multilingual Technology Program: 介紹: 智能手機的相機不只能用來拍照 (Smartphone Camera Uses Beyond Photography)
Stronger Bones
Morning Stretch
Introduction to Learning Apps – Languages & The Arts
Smartphones at a Glance
Intro to Chatting with AI
Morning Stretch
Virtual Tour: Belfast, Ireland
Fit Fusion Workout
點對點付款
YouTube
Balance/Strength
Morning Stretch
Saving Money with Tech
Internet of Things: Wearables
Chair Yoga
Morning Stretch
Internet of Things: Healthcare
Introducción a la IA
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Introduction to Heart Rate Monitor Apps
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Morning Stretch
Fitness Apps
Functional Strength Training
Fit Fusion Workout
Stronger Bones
Morning Stretch
Introduction to Heart Rate Monitor Apps
iPhones
Chair Yoga
Morning Stretch
Introduction to Estate Planning Resources & Tools
Fit Fusion Workout
智能手機攝影簡介
Anti-Virus & Malware Removal Programs At a Glance
Balance/Strength
Morning Stretch
Podcasts at a Glance
Introduction to Booking Vacation Stays Online
Chair Yoga
Morning Stretch
Introducción a chatear con IA
IoT: Smart Homes
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Tech Tips for Disaster Preparedness
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Morning Stretch
Functional Strength Training
Mindfulness Apps
Fit Fusion Workout
Stronger Bones
Morning Stretch
Drones
Online Rx Drug Resources
Chair Yoga
Morning Stretch
Virtual Museum Tours
Fit Fusion Workout
線上購物
Intro to Smartphone Photography
Balance/Strength
Morning Stretch
Messaging Apps
Intro to Selling Online
Chair Yoga
Morning Stretch
Introduction to Nextdoor
Usos cotidianos de la IA
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
All Things Zoom
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Morning Stretch
Internet of Things at a Glance
Functional Strength Training
Fit Fusion Workout
Stronger Bones
Morning Stretch
Virtual Reality at a Glance
Internet of Things: Healthcare
Chair Yoga
Morning Stretch
Video Chat
Fit Fusion Workout
YouTube
Social Media for Job Searches
Balance/Strength
Morning Stretch
Graphic Design Tools
Introduction to TikTok
Intro to X (formerly Twitter)
Morning Stretch
Generadores de imágenes de IA
Intro to Gaming
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Digital Legacy at a Glance
Stronger Bones
Morning Stretch
Smartphone Camera Uses Beyond Photography
How to Choose a New Computer
Chair Yoga
Morning Stretch
Virtual Tour: Lima, Peru
Fit Fusion Workout
訊息應用程式
Introduction to Learning Apps – Languages & The Arts
Balance/Strength
Morning Stretch
Digital Tools to Boost your Business
Chair Yoga
Saving Money with Tech
Morning Stretch
Gardening Tech At a Glance
¿Es eso IA?
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Understanding Bluetooth
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