Retirees and experts have shared their experiences and tips for how to support those navigating retirement, the first topic in the RUOK When Life Happens series, which is being developed with the support of ING Australia.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics more than 100,000 Australians intend to retire this year. But for some, closing the door on working life can be challenging, bringing financial stress, social isolation, or the loss of identity and routine.
“It can be hard to have so much on your plate each day, then to turn around and feel, well, there’s nothing really that I need to do today, that I have to do today,” said former school principal Geoff Leary.
“As a loved one, friend or colleague of someone retiring, it is important to be aware retirement can be both a celebratory and challenging time,” said Centre for Corporate Health director of psychological services Rachel Clements.
“Signs someone might be struggling include irritability and frustration, withdrawing from usual activities, and sleep disturbances,” she said.
Research from R U OK? has found that supportive conversations do make a difference. More than four in five people who engaged in a meaningful conversation felt better about managing their situation after talking it through.
“Blokes find it quite difficult to share feelings; I know I do. I think the best way to encourage more open conversations is to create trust with people around you,” Mr Leary said. “I’ve found catching up regularly, not being judgmental, and just listening after you’ve asked has been the best way to build that trust.”
Because everyone’s retirement journey is different, Ms Clements advises being open to asking what support someone might need and making the time to listen genuinely.
“When life happens, asking, ‘are you OK?’ and being there to listen is key,” she said.
Visit ruok.org.au for tips on how and when to ask meaningfully, ‘are you OK?’ when life happens, so the people important to us know they’re not alone.
For more information or support visit ruok.org.au/findhelp, call Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14, or chat online at lifeline.org.au.
Help line 13YARN (139276) offers crisis support for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people.
MensLine Australia offers support for Australian men. Call 1300 78 99 78 or chat online at mensline.org.au.
