We’re often told that coping with life changes and transitions after retirement is one of the most difficult things we will face after 60. But it isn’t the only one, and it’s certainly not the most difficult. The fact is that late life is a continual series of changes and transitions.
Changes we face late in life affect each of us differently. And the effects vary when it comes to our physical and mental health as well. Most often, how well we accept the change and move forward with our lives depends on our attitude.
When we encounter seismic shifts in our lives, they force us to make transitions. How we mentally process those shifts determines how well we come out on the other side of change.
Leaving the workforce is a big deal. But it’s not the only transition you’ll face once you turn 60 years old.
Life Changes After 60: Some Expected and Others Feared
In fact, you’ll experience life changes and transitions more frequently after 60. And, some are far weightier than entering retirement. They alter the way you think and act for the rest of your life.
By the time we turn 60, many of us have dealt with gut-wrenching challenges like losing a spouse, child, or parent. And, no doubt by now you’ve lost lifelong friends and co-workers too.
Plus, lots of people go through terrible divorces and devastating financial reversals at midlife and beyond. And they deal with terrifying medical issues or encounter other life-changing ordeals.
We expect and welcome some changes, and we’re petrified at the thought of others. Major changes can uproot our lives because we’re unprepared to handle or we don’t want to deal with them.
What are some examples of transitions and life changes after 60?
There are lots of examples of life changes and transitions as we move into adulthood. But, regardless of your age, most life change creates some loss.
While some changes have tremendous benefits, every change is also linked to a loss of some type. And, learning to embrace life changes and transitions to the next phase of our lives can be difficult.
- Becoming an empty-nester. – Loss of identity
- Separation, divorce, and death of friends and loved ones. – Loss of relationships
- Changes in employment: losing a job, career changes, and retirement. – Loss of identity
- Incurring a financial loss. – Loss of financial stability
- Facing major health changes yourself or a loved one – Loss of mobility
- Questioning faith or spirituality – Loss of spiritual moorings
- And more…
But, why is coping with life changes and transitions so difficult after 60?
Transitions later in life are difficult. They push us to let go of what we’ve grown accustomed to and face an unknown and uncertain future. It’s unnerving to find yourself in unfamiliar territory and feeling vulnerable and unprepared.
What are the life transitions related to our late adulthood?
The most common life changes and transitions related to our late adulthood are learning to be an empty nester and leaving the workforce for retirement. But, as we’ve discovered, they certainly aren’t the only ones. There are tons of other issues like moving, downsizing, changes in our health, and many others.
Why do I struggle with life changes and transitions after 60?
Many people ask, “Why do I struggle with life changes and transitions after 60”? The fact is, making a transition is difficult for everyone. One reason we struggle with making transitions is we’re forced out of our comfort zone. We must move from something we’re familiar with to something we’re not accustomed to.
What is vulnerability to late-life transitions?
Major changes make us feel vulnerable, defenseless, and unprotected. This is because the flow of our lives has been interrupted. So, it’s common to feel troubled, stressed, and exhausted. And, you may even notice that you’re not sleeping well and experience eating and digestive issues. Or, you might find that your attitude isn’t what it should be. And, you may even have physical pains that your doctor can’t explain.
How do you navigate life changes and transitions at 60+?
Change doesn’t ask permission to enter our lives. Change happens, and it forces us to make a transition. Keep in mind that there’s a difference between change and transition. Change is the event and transition is our emotional response to the change.
10 actionable tips for navigating life changes and transitions after 60.
1. Remember, You Are Not Alone.
Everyone experiences change. Regardless of your health, wealth, relationships, or social standing, everyone goes through change. Some changes at 60+ are a walk in the park, while others are unbearably painful. Regardless of what’s happened to you, there are others who’ve encountered similar circumstances. And, they managed to overcome the challenges.
2. Normalize your situation.
Whatever you’re feeling about the change you’ve encountered is normal. Your reaction is ordinary, inevitable, predictable, and natural.
3. Embrace the Maze
Forget about those who tell you that there’s a straight path through this specific stage in your life. Fact is, there’s absolutely nothing linear or predictable about it. While we can encounter similar circumstances as others, we each react differently.
I’m a big fan of Dr. William Bridges’ book Transitions, Making Sense of Life’s Changes. He outlines three components dealing with change and transition. The Ending, The Neutral Zone, and The New Beginning.
The Ending – acknowledging and mourning our losses.
The Neutral Zone – being suspended between what was and where we need to be.
The New Beginning – a gradual transformation with no specific timeline.
4. Allow yourself time.
Don’t set unreasonable expectations for yourself. Remember, adapting to change and making transitions is a process. So, don’t rush that process, it will only add to your frustration or stress. Psychology Today wrote a great post on how ways to make it through life changes and transitions. Below, you’ll find a list of things that I have found to be personally helpful when dealing with life changes and transitions.
5. Talk to yourself – Don’t listen to yourself.
Pay attention to what you’re telling yourself. If you listen to yourself, you’ll hear all the reasons you should give up or be bitter. You’ll hear all the negativity, all the complaints, the fears, and the self-doubts. So, instead, talk to yourself and tell yourself things that fuel encouragement. Tell yourself things that empower you to overcome the challenges.
6. Set achievable goals.
Don’t underestimate the power of setting goals.
First, set some reasonable goals for your physical and mental health.
Second, be realistic about what it’ll take to reach your goals. Setting your goals too high will lead to discouragement.
So, set attainable goals that encourage slow, steady progress.
Third, write your goals down so you can review and revise them as needed. Be sure to add as much detail as possible.
And finally, make sure that you track your progress. Then, you can spot areas needing improvement and celebrate your victories.
7. Stay connected.
To make transitions smoother, it is important to have a network of good relationships. Staying connected will improve your mental well-being and boost your confidence.
8. Don’t Self-medicate.
It’s not uncommon for people to become depressed or anxious when they’re encountering change. It’s dangerous to self-medicate, and you’re taking the risk of drug dependence. Self-medication only delays getting the proper treatment. You can have adverse reactions or drug interactions. So, never attempt self-treatment. This can mask an existing condition or make an existing condition worse. If you’re experiencing depression, please see your doctor or qualified health practitioner.
9. Exercise.
Exercise can combat depression and anxiety while improving your stamina. Just taking regular walks can improve your mood and feelings of well-being.
10. Practice Gratitude.
As someone said, “Your attitude determines your altitude.” And nothing will improve your attitude like gratitude. Many experts agree that there are three stages of gratitude: First, recognize what you should be grateful for. Next, acknowledge it by holding it in your mind and observing it. And finally, appreciate its value and worth.
I hope that you can take what you’ve learned in this post and face life changes and transitions after 60 a little easier.
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