Ep # 139 - The New Retirement: Work, Purpose & Aging with Dr. Corinne Auman
Joe interviews aging expert Dr. Corinne Auman to explore how retirement and aging are evolving in today’s world. They discuss overcoming ageism, finding purpose after leaving the workforce, and planning for both financial and emotional aspects of retirement. You will gain insights on caregiving, age-inclusive workplaces, and strategies for aging well with intention.
Key Takeaways
· Retirement is more than just financial planning – Emotional and social preparation are just as critical to ensure a meaningful and fulfilling retirement.
· Outdated views of aging are harmful – The idea that aging equals decline is a myth; ages 55–80 should be seen as extended middle adulthood, full of opportunity and purpose.
· Purpose is key in retirement – Unlimited leisure often leads to boredom; retirees thrive when they engage in meaningful work, volunteering, caregiving, or hobbies that provide connection and fulfillment.
· Conversations about aging and care are essential – Families should proactively discuss aging preferences, caregiving expectations, and living arrangements to avoid future crises
· Mindset matters – A positive attitude toward aging is linked to longer life, better health, and reduced risk of cognitive decline—how you think about aging directly impacts how you experience it.
Ideas Worth Sharing
· "Aging is very cool—everyone’s doing it!"
· "Retirement isn’t the end of purpose; it’s a shift in how you find it."
· "Unlimited free time without meaning starts to feel kind of yucky."
· "We plan more for college than we do for retirement—and one lasts a lot longer."
· "A positive mindset about aging can literally help you live longer."
Resources
Dr. Corinne Auman’s Website
A central hub to learn more about her work, get in touch, and explore her writing including the book Keenagers.
Aging Life Care Association
A directory to help families find a professional care manager (also known as an Aging Life Care Professional) anywhere in North America.
Book Mentioned
Keenagers by Dr. Corinne Auman (referred to in the closing).
This book focuses on redefining aging and embracing the opportunities that come with later life stages.
Beyond the Bank Account: The True Essence of a Fulfilling Retirement
When we think about retirement, financial planning often dominates the conversation. We focus on investment portfolios, savings targets, and pension strategies. But according to retirement expert Dr. Corinne Auman, we're missing a crucial part of the equation.
In a thought-provoking episode of Your Retirement Planning Simplified, host Joe Curry explored the multidimensional nature of retirement with Dr. Auman, who brings over two decades of experience working with older adults and their families.
Retirement: A New Chapter, Not the Epilogue
The traditional view of retirement as solely a financial milestone is outdated. Dr. Auman emphasizes that while financial security creates the foundation, it's purpose and meaning that build a truly satisfying retirement life.
Many retirees experience an initial "honeymoon phase" filled with travel and leisure activities. However, without deeper purpose, this period often gives way to restlessness and even depression. The most fulfilled retirees are those who have planned for their emotional and social well-being alongside their financial health.
Redefining Our Aging Timeline
With increasing longevity, our conception of aging needs updating. Dr. Auman suggests viewing ages 55 to 80 as "extended middle adulthood" rather than the beginning of decline. This perspective shift opens possibilities for encore careers, meaningful volunteerism, mentorship opportunities, and pursuit of long-deferred passions.
The Power of Positive Aging
Perhaps most striking is how our attitudes toward aging directly impact our aging experience. Research consistently shows that people who maintain positive views about aging enjoy better health outcomes, including longer lifespans and reduced dementia risk. Dr. Auman encourages listeners to recognize and challenge ageist stereotypes that pervade our culture and can unconsciously affect our self-perception.
Proactive Elder Care Planning
For many approaching retirement, elder care responsibilities for aging parents add another dimension to planning. Dr. Auman advocates for proactive family discussions about care preferences, living arrangements, and financial considerations before crises force hurried decisions.
Creating Age-Inclusive Workplaces
Workplace ageism represents another challenge in our retirement landscape. Forward-thinking employers recognize the value of age diversity and create environments where older professionals can continue making meaningful contributions. The most innovative workplaces leverage the complementary strengths of different generations.
Embracing the Journey Ahead
Retirement represents not an ending but a beginning—a transition to a new phase rich with possibility. By approaching it holistically—addressing financial, emotional, social, and practical dimensions—you can create a retirement that offers not just security but genuine fulfillment.
To explore more insights on creating a purposeful retirement, subscribe to Your Retirement Planning Simplified or visit retirementplanningsimplified.ca.