Wendel Abel
OLD AGE does not have to be depressing and distressing. By all accounts we are all living longer in Jamaica. Statistics also indicate that, in general, women live longer than men. This is the trend worldwide.
Growing old does present its challenges. Planning allows us to reduce 'the old age blues'.
* Watch your health now. Remember, a stitch in time saves nine. Ensure regular medical check-ups, especially after age 45. Have regular screenings for heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and the common cancers that affect us in Jamaica, such as cancer of the breast and cervix in females and cancer of the prostate, stomach and lungs in males. Discuss these issues with your family doctor.
* Lifestyle changes. This cannot be overemphasised. Start a regular exercise routine. Discuss this with your doctor. One of the single most important investments you can make to your health and well-being is exercise. Also, pay attention to your diet.
* Plan your finances. Old age and inflation can wipe out your savings. Plan your finances well. Decide on the amount of money that you can live on when you retire. Invest wisely while you are young. Start now. Many financial institutions have in place a number of plans for your old age. Start making arrangements now. The National Insurance Scheme will not be adequate to meet your needs when you retire. If your company has a retirement plan, learn how you can maximise your contributions now.
* Make practical decisions about where you will live. As we get older, larger homes are more difficult to maintain. Stairs may be difficult to deal with. You may want to retire in the countryside or in a more secure and smaller home. Many persons are making the decision to move to retirement homes. This is always an option. Start making these decisions early.
* Think about what you will be doing while on retirement. Many persons have difficulty on retirement. A common response I get is "I was never prepared for this." Take on a hobby - gardening and painting are two popular ones. There are many other hobbies and they can be a source of additional income.
* Volunteering can be very fulfilling. Many persons on retirement take on voluntary activities. Teaching, getting involved in church activities, volunteering with charitable organisations are popular choices. Giving back and keeping yourself active can be very fulfilling and rewarding.
* Find time for leisure and relaxation. Many older persons get together and travel. You do not have to travel outside of Jamaica and there are many safe, inexpensive travel opportunities available which can be very rewarding and exciting.
* Remember growing old and dying are parts of life's realities. It does not have to be painful. Nothing is guaranteed in life, but if you start planning early and take a realistic attitude toward ageing and retirement you may be able to better face the challenges and enjoy old age.
* Dr. Wendel Abel is a consultant psychiatrist and senior lecturer, University of the West Indies; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.
