Retirement or Encore Career?

Hello there fellow Ageless!

Buckle up, because you're in for a ride filled with discoveries, inspiration, and a whole lot of fun with your new Ageless family. Let's dive right into the good stuff we've got lined up for you:

🏋️‍♂️ Vibrant Living: Empowering Your Health and Wellness

Oprah and Ozempic: Oprah Winfrey’s recent open discussion about using a weight loss medication such as Ozempic is not just about shedding pounds; it is a bold move toward destigmatizing medical assistance for various health issues. The admission is extremely relevant in light of the fact that obesity has recently been found to be a greater threat to global health than starvation. Moreover, this kind of transparency can revolutionize how we view treatments for common aging concerns such as heart health and cognitive function. By normalizing the conversation around using medication as a legitimate option for managing health, Oprah is paving the way for people to seek medical assistance for these critical issues without shame or blame. Her candidness encourages a more compassionate understanding that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a step toward better health and well being. At the same time, it is important to note that off-label use of medications can be problematic. While Oprah’s personal story is encouraging, all medications carry complications which mandate conversations with a licensed health provider to ensure they are suitable for you.

I Can Buy Myself Flowers: Amidst the busyness of life, it’s essential to remember the transformative power of self-care. Research emphasizes that as we go through various life stages, the practice of self-care becomes not just beneficial but necessary. It is not merely an indulgence; it’s about maintaining our mental, physical, and emotional well being. From the simple pleasure of buying fresh flowers to engaging in activities that fill you with joy, every act of kindness to ourselves affects our presence allowing us to be more calm and focused, thereby enabling us to make wiser and more intuitive decisions. It helps us to recognize our own worth and potential which in turn leads to profound spiritual and personal growth. Why not try a massage which is said to reduce stress, provide relief from anxiety and depression, and alleviate aches and pain. You deserve it.

💰 Wealth Wisdom - Securing Your Financial Future

An Encore Performance: Deciding whether to retire has become a significant quandary as we age. The hesitation often stems from identity concerns, financial fears, healthcare costs, and the reality of longer lifespans. Many are questioning if their retirement savings can sustain their lifestyle for years to come, considering the rising costs and their deep-rooted identification with their professional roles. This monumental decision is not just about leaving a job, it’s about transitioning to a new life phase raising questions about purpose and financial security. An “encore career,” as discussed in a recent article in Forbes, is becoming a popular course of action for those who plan to retire. This conscious choice allows individuals to explore their passions, take advantage of their vast experience and translate both into a meaningful contribution that benefits both themselves and society. By reforming the retirement narrative in this manner, we are witnessing a cognitive shift in how we view aging. Additionally, this reframing views aging as an untapped reservoir of talent which could possibly lead to more inclusive workplaces or alternate paths like the gig economy. Take a look here at how former US presidents found their second act throughout history.

📚 Lifelong Learning and Brain Boosts

Time to Boogie: While we are all well aware that exercise is important for good physical health, a recent study revealed that ballroom dance improves mental health too. Engaging in dance improves global cognitive function, executive function and memory. By reducing social isolation and physical inactivity, lifestyle interventions like this lower your chances of dementia. Dance encourages a positive mindset, reduces stress, and increases self-esteem by providing a sense of achievement and social engagement. Meet this 77 year old ballroom dance champion who reminds us all that it is never too late.

More Than Words: Embracing a new language as we age can be a gateway to numerous cognitive and social benefits. Studies have demonstrated that learning a second language can significantly delay the onset of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, by up to four years. This process of language acquisition challenges the brain, enhancing cognitive functions and improving areas such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Moreover, bilingualism has been linked to better decision-making and rational thinking. Beyond the brain boost, picking up a new language can enhance cultural understanding, improve social interactions, and increase life satisfaction, making it a valuable pursuit for seniors aiming to enrich their later years. Learning a new language is not just about adding a skill but nurturing a healthier, more engaged mind. It takes about 600 to 750 hours to learn a new language, so why not start learning today so you can go on that trip abroad you have been dreaming of?

👗 Trend Transcendence - Fashion and Beauty Guide

Aesthetic Inflation: In the world of beauty and skincare, ’clean’ has become a buzzword that promises safety, natural ingredients, and environmental friendliness. Unfortunately, this term is not officially regulated, leading to a plethora of products on the market that may not live up to their claims. While the intention behind clean beauty is to provide healthier, less harmful skincare options, the lack of standardized definitions can make navigating the landscape confusing for customers. The beauty companies are able to make their own definitions, which of course benefit their own agendas and values. By labeling products as clean, they are using science to garner sales. And to complicate matters further, these companies are turning to creators and influencers to get the word out, thereby allowing those individuals to have a say as well. For many of us, we often take such representations as truth. Unfortunately, internet presence is not directly related to its veracity. It is important to remember that natural does not necessarily mean safe or better. Clean beauty’s effects on the marketing of this industry has raised a growing call for regulations. Until then, the burden of proof must fall to the consumer to do their own due diligence to determine which ingredients they feel are best for them. EWG is a generally trusted, non-profit resource for understanding what you are putting on your body and skin.

Fashion Icon Legacy: The world has lost a true icon of style and individuality. With her boundless creativity and fearless spirit, Iris Apfel shattered age stereotypes and ignited a revolution of self-expression. Her larger-than-life presence illuminated runways and has inspired generations. More than a fashion maven, she was a beacon of authenticity in a world often defined by conformity. Her fearless embrace of personal style transcended age, proving that beauty know no bounds and creativity has no expiration date. She will forever remain a guiding light for those daring to defy convention and embrace their true selves. Take a look at Lyn Slater and Linda Rodin who are continuing to break all the rules with style and flair.

🌟 Community Spotlight

Next week marks four years since Covid was declared a global pandemic. No matter where you stand on that declaration, we all can agree the lockdown changed our lives. We would love to hear how the pandemic led you to a different career or lifestyle that you otherwise would never have found. Send us your stories so we can include some of the highlights in next week’s edition.

Remember this section is all about YOU and your fellow Ageless adventurers. We're always on the lookout for inspiring stories, achievements, and how you're living your best life. Got a story to share or know someone who does? Hit reply and tell us all about it. Your journey could be the next feature in our Community Spotlight!

🔗 The Extras - Fun Stuff We Had to Share

• Click here for America’s best states to retire to in 2024.

• Tired of washing your hair all the time? Save water and soap with this Vayose brush.

• Check out 5 “Coming of Ageless” books with female protagonists between the ages of 60 and 90.

• As we all gear up for this year’s Academy Awards on Sunday, there were a few snubs and surprises in the nominations. Read about it here.

• While many of us remember the question “Where’s Waldo,” our focus has shifted to a new person of interest. The latest query is: “Where is Kate Middleton?” Learn all about it here.

🌿 Sage Reflections

“Never let anyone tell you what you cannot do.”

-Wise parenting advice from Donna Kelsie to her son Jason who just retired from the NFL. Listen to his moving farewell speech here.

Remember, Ageless Ascent is more than a newsletter; it's a community, a movement, a way of life. We're here to explore, learn, and grow together. So, what are you looking forward to the most? Let us know by replying to this email. Your feedback is the compass that guides our adventure.

Till next time,

The Ageless Team

P.S. Stay curious, stay engaged, and most importantly, stay you. The best is yet to come. 🌟