I enjoy reading what others write too but today I feel the urge to write that I, too, am without children and grandchildren and a support system. I’m very alone. My health and financial resources are still excellent but the thought of those declining scares me. I’m still working part-time and realize my work hampers my desire to travel more. So, I’m feeling quite conflicted. I’m 66 and can’t imagine having an unstructured schedule for years if I live into my 90s. Suggestions for how to decide when it’s time to give up the job?
Feeling Conflicted by Charlene Epp
February 9, 2013 by ElderChicks
8 Responses
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ElderChicks 
Since I have similar issues, with the exception of the part-time job, I understand how concerned you are. As selfish as it sounds, it makes me feel slightly better to know that I am not alone in this crazy world called aging. I am trying to find a part time job just for interaction with others. Travel makes me energized and happy for the new surroundings. I live in a small community and part time jobs that would entice me are practically nonexistent. I think we, as elder chicks, need to have a registry of things to do. Real lists, like Angie’s list, that gives information about concrete possibilities for us to continue to take advantage of our years of experience and special needs. Does anyone know of a source for this?
To Robin–in Philadelphia, there is a program called Coming of Age. On their website (comingofage.org), under opportunities, they list volunteer and sometimes paid positions. Even if you’re not in this area, you might get ideas for things you could look for where you are (e.g.hospice volunteer, after-school programs, volunteer opportunities in art or other museums, theaters, historic sites, senior centers–something related to an interest you have). On their website, they list other resources, such as Retired Senior Volunteer program (RSVP), and an AARP website, createthegood.org, that provides volunteer information nationally.
Thank you for spending time to respond to my comment. I had never heard of Inspiring Opportunities. I definitely will go on line for suggestions. Great sources do help.
How about volunteering? There are so many opportunities for helping out in most communities. You can usually find out the possibilities through any social service agency, church or United Fund type agency. They usually have lists. Doing volunteer work is usually comparable to a part-time job and will give you a sense of “structure”. Good luck.
To conflicted: I can only answer for myself. I prepared for retirement by getting involved with group servicing domestic violence. I was already training to be a
volunteer the year before I retired, therefore, was already using my retirement as a drive to contribute in other ways.
AND, I knew I was ready to retire. I was a teacher and the attitudes of the
district and the staff were bothering me.
AND, I had the benefit of a pension awaiting me.
I hope that you will retire when you know you are ready; when your job no
longer satisfies you, You seem to have already decided you can afford it.
Don’t live completely alone, If you have no family, live in a complex of some
sort where there are compatible people and access to whatever interests you.
Make new friends if you need to.
Enjoy your life!!!
(From the perspective of age 90)…..
What a great age, good health, financial resources….now is the time to treat yourself to new experiences. Check with the variety of agencies in your community…schools, social services agencies, women’s groups….become a tutor, a mentor.. a playmate with a pre-schooler….sign up for educational Road Scholar trips (formerly Elderhostel)
The possibilities for meaningful activities, for making new friends and acquaintances are endless. Good luck.
To Hannah, I hope I am as positive in my outlook on life, as you, when I am 90. I would think that you have taken your own good advice and made many friends and enjoyed many meaningful activities. Smile and hugs!