Retirement takes planning, so let the library help—November 21, 2008
In addition to a new sense of freedom – freedom to do what you want when – retirement also presents the retiree with a dizzying array of initials representing a myriad of plans, programs and requirements—MAGI, IRD, RMD and Medicare A, B, C, D and F. The library has a variety of books to help you decipher the maze.
Retirement, like any other major phase of your life, requires some planning. Some people for whom their career is their “raison d’etre” can be at a loss when faced with unstructured days. In “The Joy of Not Working” Ernie Zelenski is not advocating becoming a bum, but is encouraging people to enjoy life more. Zelenski defines “leisure’ as the time one spends away from work doing the things they want to do. Many Americans tend to be workaholics and highly successful in their chosen occupation, but are unable to cope with free time. Zelenski’s “Get-A-Life” tree lists broad suggestions for selecting leisure activities. The many quotes and cartoons throughout provide lots of food for thought.
In that same vein is “How to Enjoy your Retirement: Activities from A to Z” by Tricia Wagner. In addition to potpourri of activities to pique your interest, Wagner also offers communication tips for getting along with your significant other now that you are together more hours of the day.
Who better to offer advice about living than the “Chicken Soup” guy, Mark Victor Hansen and Art Linkletter? Their book “How to Make the Rest of Your Life the Best of Your Life” offers suggestions on how you can be more vital and alive at seventy than you were at forty.
Naturally retirement also means planning for your financial future. Despite the current state of the economy the basic tenets are still valid – plan, save and invest. Stan Hinden’s “How to Retire Happy” and “The 250 Retirement Questions Everyone Should Ask” by David Rye and Kori Bowers address details of financial planning, options for relocating and business opportunities. Rye and Bowers also include many websites for additional information.
Medicare Part D an undecipherable maze? Let Patricia Berry, a recognized expert, walk you through the options in “Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage for Dummies.” The easy-to-read format makes this topic understandable.
In addition to providing an overview of many retirement savings accounts Ed Slott also addresses issues like beneficiary forms, inheritance taxes and trusts in “Your Complete Retirement Planning Road Map.” Slott combines crucial facts with checklists and questionnaires to point out the best way to save and maximize an inheritance.
Whether retirement is years down the road or right around the corner, now is the time to plan.
