{"content_id":"otla6e9to3","slug":"retirement-relationships-and-healthy-ageing","locale":"en","schema_type":"Article","category":"knowledge_base","category_name":"Knowledge Base","title":"Retirement Relationships and Healthy Aging Checklist","summary":"Judge relationships after retirement by recurring behavior and respect for boundaries, not personality. Reviewing living expenses, desired activities, health, and a support network together is the basis for retirement planning.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["When adjusting relationships after retirement, focus on behaviors such as insults, coercion, and ignoring refusals rather than extroversion.","Enjoying time alone is different from having no relationships to turn to when you need help.","Classifying lifestyles by money and time is a review tool, not a standard for judging happiness or a person's worth.","Weight management in later life should consider muscle, nutrition, and daily functioning, as well as whether to lose weight.","A caregiving plan needs not only a primary caregiver but also an alternative for when that person is unavailable."],"content_markdown":"After retirement, judge relationships by recurring behavior rather than personality. Set boundaries against insults and coercion, but maintain connections through which you can receive help. Retirement planning should consider living expenses, health, desired activities, and alternative care arrangements together.\n\nThe health information is based on WHO guidance from July 2026 and NIA guidance from April 2022, among other sources.\n\n## Criteria for Relationships to Distance Yourself From After Retirement\n\nThe standard for adjusting distance is whether the other person respects your wishes and safety. Someone is not harmful simply because they are outgoing or voice complaints. Conversely, even a quiet person may disregard another person’s refusal.\n\nWHO describes social connection in terms of the structure, function, and quality of relationships. Quality includes both satisfying interactions and interactions that cause conflict. It is therefore difficult to judge whether relationships are good based only on how often a group meets. You can find the definition in WHO’s [Social connection Q\u0026A](https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/social-connection).\n\nThe following table is not a diagnostic chart for classifying personalities. It provides practical criteria for adjusting relationships. Focus on which behaviors actually recur.\n\n| Behavior in the relationship | What to check first | Direction to take |\n|---|---|---|\n| Shares difficulties but also listens to me | Do we both have the capacity for the conversation? | Explain the scope of conversation you can handle |\n| Belittles or publicly insults me every time we meet | Does it continue even after I say it makes me uncomfortable? | End the conversation or meet less often |\n| Keeps pressuring me to attend expensive gatherings | Do they respect my refusal when I say it is beyond my budget? | State your spending limit and suggest alternatives |\n| Makes giving money a condition of friendship or filial duty | Do they threaten me or make me feel guilty if I refuse? | Pause financial decisions and seek outside help |\n| Controls my communication, outings, or use of money | Are my safety and freedom of choice being violated? | Prioritize safety and professional support |\n\nViolence or threats are not matters to dismiss as differences in preference. WHO includes psychological and financial abuse, as well as neglect, in abuse of older people. If you suspect abuse, seek help from a local protection agency or healthcare provider. Relevant information is available in [Abuse of older people](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/abuse-of-older-people).\n\n## Organizing by Circumstances: Reviewing Life Through Money and Time\n\nThe combination of money and time can help identify constraints in daily life. However, it should not be interpreted as a social class system for retirement or a ranking of happiness. The same assets may be used differently depending on health and caregiving burdens.\n\nHere, financial security does not mean the amount of wealth you have compared with others. First determine whether you can cover your essential expenses. Having time also does not simply mean that you no longer commute to work.\n\n| Current circumstances | What is easy to overlook | What to review |\n|---|---|---|\n| Enough money for living expenses and free time | Money and time do not guarantee health | Desired activities and relationships through which you can receive help |\n| Enough money for living expenses but little free time | Work or family caregiving may take up your time | Burdens that can be reduced or shared |\n| Limited money for living expenses but free time | Spending on gatherings may strain living expenses | Affordable socializing and activity costs |\n| Limited money for living expenses and little free time | Paid work and caregiving may overlap | Available public support and ways to share the burden |\n\nDo not conclude that continuing to work for a living is a personal failure. WHO explains that housing and socioeconomic conditions also affect health in older age. In addition to individual effort, available support should also be considered. Background information is available in [Ageing and health](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ageing-and-health).\n\n### How Should You Set a Budget for Gatherings?\n\nDecide how much to spend on gatherings after first reviewing essential living expenses. Your total assets and the money immediately available to spend may differ. The sequence below is not a formula recommending a specific spending ratio.\n\n1. Write down your regular income.\n2. Write down essential expenses such as housing, food, and medical costs.\n3. Check how much flexibility you have for irregular expenses and care needs.\n4. Set limits for gatherings and hobbies within the remaining amount.\n5. For proposals that exceed your limit, suggest another activity or location.\n\n## Comparing Time Alone and Social Isolation\n\nA preference for being alone should be distinguished from social isolation. Social isolation is an objective state in which relationships and interactions are lacking. Loneliness is the distress caused by a gap between the connection you want and the connection you actually have.\n\nThis distinction follows WHO’s Social connection Q\u0026A. Even someone who lives alone may have enough of the relationships they need. Conversely, someone who frequently meets others may still feel lonely.\n\n| Category | Criterion to consider | Question to ask yourself |\n|---|---|---|\n| Time alone to rest | Is this rest that I chose for myself? | After resting, do I have the energy to do the activities I want? |\n| Social isolation | Do I lack connections that provide help and interaction? | Is there someone I can contact when I am ill? |\n| Loneliness | Do I feel as connected as I want to be? | Am I distressed because I cannot connect even when I want to see someone? |\n\nYou do not need to answer every call immediately or attend every gathering. Instead, decide on comfortable ways and times to stay in contact. Even if you reduce burdensome gatherings, check that you still have channels for receiving necessary help.\n\n## What Criteria Should You Use to Choose Hobbies and Work?\n\nChoose activities after retirement based on the experiences you want and the burdens you can handle. A hobby that family members think is good may not suit you. At the same time, there is no reason to rule out the possibility of developing new interests.\n\nIf you find fulfillment in earning money, you can consider paid activities. Regardless of income, you may also want activities through which you can learn or contribute. In either case, the person who has the right to choose should decide personally.\n\n| Activity | Questions that help with the choice | Burdens to adjust |\n|---|---|---|\n| Paid activity | Which do you expect more from it, income or a role? | Work intensity and travel burden |\n| Learning and creative work | Is this something you genuinely want to try? | Tuition and schedule |\n| Volunteering and community activities | How would you like to contribute? | Scope of responsibility and frequency of participation |\n| Leisure at home | Does it help you maintain a daily rhythm while enjoying yourself? | Time that displaces sleep, meals, or movement |\n\nWatching YouTube is also a leisure option. However, it cannot be assumed that it is always a suitable hobby for introverted people. Consider whether watching it is displacing necessary daily activities and communication.\n\n## How to Adjust a Relationship When It Feels Uncomfortable\n\nIf the relationship is safe, describe the uncomfortable behavior and the change you want in specific terms. Judging the other person’s entire personality makes it difficult to narrow down the problem. The statements below are examples of conversation, not quotations of actual remarks.\n\n1. Identify the behavior. “I feel uncomfortable when you make fun of my choices in front of other people.”\n2. State the change you want. “Please stop using that expression.”\n3. Explain your limit. “It is difficult for me to attend gatherings at this price.”\n4. Decide what you will do if the boundary is not respected. “If this continues, I’ll end today’s conversation.”\n5. Based on their subsequent behavior, adjust how and how often you meet.\n\nIn a relationship involving threats, you do not need to try to persuade the other person directly. First secure a safe place and someone who can help you. In such situations, ensuring safety comes before repairing the relationship.\n\nReview your own way of communicating by the same standards. Check whether you frequently interrupt the other person. Before giving advice, ask whether they want to hear it. Also consider whether you repeatedly try to persuade them after they have refused.\n\n## Common Mistakes in Relationships With Children and Spouses\n\nFamily relationships cannot be stabilized through money or silence alone. Discuss expectations about communication, visits, and financial support. Who will provide care also needs to be discussed separately.\n\n| Common interpretation | Limitation of the judgment | What to check |\n|---|---|---|\n| Paying for meals will preserve the relationship | Spending alone cannot guarantee respect or closeness | How costs are shared and satisfaction with meetings |\n| Giving children an allowance will reduce conflict | Financial support and relationship problems are separate issues | The communication and scope of support each person wants |\n| Less communication means they dislike me | It may be due to health, schedules, or caregiving circumstances | The actual circumstances before making assumptions |\n| Late-life divorce leads to estrangement from children | There is no basis for applying this to every family | The circumstances and safety of each relationship |\n| Family members must continue providing care | Caregivers also have limits | Sustainable roles and alternative support |\n\nDo not make decisions about your marital relationship based only on fear of estrangement from your children. The nature of the conflict and safety concerns should each be examined. Consult a professional in your area about property, housing, and legal issues.\n\n## Is Health in Older Age Determined Only by Weight and Walking Ability?\n\nHealthy ageing is not determined solely by weight or the ability to walk independently. WHO focuses on the ability to do what a person values. Being completely free of disease is not a requirement for healthy ageing.\n\nYou can find the definition in WHO’s [Healthy ageing and functional ability Q\u0026A](https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/healthy-ageing-and-functional-ability). This explanation includes not only physical capacity but also the living environment. Walking aids and accessible transportation are also resources that support activity.\n\n### What Should You Check Before Losing Weight?\n\nIn older age, the need for weight loss should be assessed individually. NIA explains that weight alone does not provide enough information about health. Being underweight and unintentional weight loss should also be considered. Consult a healthcare professional before trying to change your weight.\n\n- Check whether you are eating less or have less appetite than before.\n- Watch for weight loss that you did not intend.\n- Record whether you have become weaker along with the weight change.\n- Discuss your weight-loss goal together with ways to maintain nutrition and muscle.\n\nThese criteria are based on NIA’s [Maintaining a Healthy Weight](https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/maintaining-healthy-weight). Do not reduce the amount you eat simply because you are older. If you have pain or difficulty moving, discuss the cause and the support you need.\n\n### When Should You Seek Help for Emotional Changes?\n\nSeek counseling if distress or a decline in your ability to manage daily life persists. WHO explains that mental health conditions in older age are often not adequately identified. Low mood and anxiety should not be dismissed as simply due to age.\n\nChanges in income or roles after retirement can be burdensome. Bereavement and caregiving burdens can also affect mental health. Relevant information is available in [Mental health of older adults](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-of-older-adults).\n\n## A Contact Network and Backup Plan to Prevent Gaps in Care\n\nCare planning needs to include arrangements for when the primary caregiver is unavailable. There is no need to rank whether family members or paid caregivers are more important. Write down the necessary roles and possible alternatives in specific terms.\n\nThe items below are examples of plans that can be applied to later life. They are not an established system or an official assessment chart. Keep your wishes at the center and confirm with the people involved what is possible.\n\n| Situation | What to check in advance |\n|---|---|\n| The usual caregiver becomes ill | An alternative contact person and available services |\n| Medical attention is suddenly needed | Transportation and whether someone can accompany you |\n| Communication becomes difficult | Who should be informed of your usual care preferences |\n| Moving around the home becomes difficult | Obstacles involving thresholds, bathrooms, and routes in and out |\n| Discomfort or unfair treatment occurs during care | A channel for reporting the problem to someone other than the person responsible |\n\nYou should not have to endure discomfort in order to receive respectful care. Being courteous to caregivers is different from giving up your rights. Adding this contact network to your review of living expenses can also help you prepare for gaps in care.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eAfter retirement, judge relationships by recurring behavior rather than personality. Set boundaries against insults and coercion, but maintain connections through which you can receive help. Retirement planning should consider living expenses, health, desired activities, and alternative care arrangements together.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe health information is based on WHO guidance from July 2026 and NIA guidance from April 2022, among other sources.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#criteria-for-relationships-to-distance-yourself-from-after-retirement\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"criteria-for-relationships-to-distance-yourself-from-after-retirement\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCriteria for Relationships to Distance Yourself From After Retirement\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard for adjusting distance is whether the other person respects your wishes and safety. Someone is not harmful simply because they are outgoing or voice complaints. Conversely, even a quiet person may disregard another person’s refusal.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWHO describes social connection in terms of the structure, function, and quality of relationships. Quality includes both satisfying interactions and interactions that cause conflict. It is therefore difficult to judge whether relationships are good based only on how often a group meets. You can find the definition in WHO’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/social-connection\"\u003eSocial connection Q\u0026amp;A\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe following table is not a diagnostic chart for classifying personalities. It provides practical criteria for adjusting relationships. Focus on which behaviors actually recur.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBehavior in the relationship\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check first\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDirection to take\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Behavior in the relationship\"\u003eShares difficulties but also listens to me\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eDo we both have the capacity for the conversation?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Direction to take\"\u003eExplain the scope of conversation you can handle\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Behavior in the relationship\"\u003eBelittles or publicly insults me every time we meet\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eDoes it continue even after I say it makes me uncomfortable?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Direction to take\"\u003eEnd the conversation or meet less often\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Behavior in the relationship\"\u003eKeeps pressuring me to attend expensive gatherings\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eDo they respect my refusal when I say it is beyond my budget?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Direction to take\"\u003eState your spending limit and suggest alternatives\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Behavior in the relationship\"\u003eMakes giving money a condition of friendship or filial duty\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eDo they threaten me or make me feel guilty if I refuse?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Direction to take\"\u003ePause financial decisions and seek outside help\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Behavior in the relationship\"\u003eControls my communication, outings, or use of money\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check first\"\u003eAre my safety and freedom of choice being violated?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Direction to take\"\u003ePrioritize safety and professional support\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eViolence or threats are not matters to dismiss as differences in preference. WHO includes psychological and financial abuse, as well as neglect, in abuse of older people. If you suspect abuse, seek help from a local protection agency or healthcare provider. Relevant information is available in \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/abuse-of-older-people\"\u003eAbuse of older people\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#organizing-by-circumstances-reviewing-life-through-money-and-time\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"organizing-by-circumstances-reviewing-life-through-money-and-time\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eOrganizing by Circumstances: Reviewing Life Through Money and Time\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe combination of money and time can help identify constraints in daily life. However, it should not be interpreted as a social class system for retirement or a ranking of happiness. The same assets may be used differently depending on health and caregiving burdens.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere, financial security does not mean the amount of wealth you have compared with others. First determine whether you can cover your essential expenses. Having time also does not simply mean that you no longer commute to work.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCurrent circumstances\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat is easy to overlook\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to review\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eEnough money for living expenses and free time\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What is easy to overlook\"\u003eMoney and time do not guarantee health\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to review\"\u003eDesired activities and relationships through which you can receive help\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eEnough money for living expenses but little free time\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What is easy to overlook\"\u003eWork or family caregiving may take up your time\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to review\"\u003eBurdens that can be reduced or shared\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eLimited money for living expenses but free time\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What is easy to overlook\"\u003eSpending on gatherings may strain living expenses\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to review\"\u003eAffordable socializing and activity costs\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current circumstances\"\u003eLimited money for living expenses and little free time\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What is easy to overlook\"\u003ePaid work and caregiving may overlap\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to review\"\u003eAvailable public support and ways to share the burden\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not conclude that continuing to work for a living is a personal failure. WHO explains that housing and socioeconomic conditions also affect health in older age. In addition to individual effort, available support should also be considered. Background information is available in \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ageing-and-health\"\u003eAgeing and health\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-should-you-set-a-budget-for-gatherings\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-should-you-set-a-budget-for-gatherings\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow Should You Set a Budget for Gatherings?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecide how much to spend on gatherings after first reviewing essential living expenses. Your total assets and the money immediately available to spend may differ. The sequence below is not a formula recommending a specific spending ratio.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWrite down your regular income.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWrite down essential expenses such as housing, food, and medical costs.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck how much flexibility you have for irregular expenses and care needs.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSet limits for gatherings and hobbies within the remaining amount.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor proposals that exceed your limit, suggest another activity or location.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#comparing-time-alone-and-social-isolation\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"comparing-time-alone-and-social-isolation\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eComparing Time Alone and Social Isolation\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA preference for being alone should be distinguished from social isolation. Social isolation is an objective state in which relationships and interactions are lacking. Loneliness is the distress caused by a gap between the connection you want and the connection you actually have.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis distinction follows WHO’s Social connection Q\u0026amp;A. Even someone who lives alone may have enough of the relationships they need. Conversely, someone who frequently meets others may still feel lonely.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCategory\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCriterion to consider\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eQuestion to ask yourself\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eTime alone to rest\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Criterion to consider\"\u003eIs this rest that I chose for myself?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Question to ask yourself\"\u003eAfter resting, do I have the energy to do the activities I want?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eSocial isolation\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Criterion to consider\"\u003eDo I lack connections that provide help and interaction?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Question to ask yourself\"\u003eIs there someone I can contact when I am ill?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eLoneliness\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Criterion to consider\"\u003eDo I feel as connected as I want to be?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Question to ask yourself\"\u003eAm I distressed because I cannot connect even when I want to see someone?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou do not need to answer every call immediately or attend every gathering. Instead, decide on comfortable ways and times to stay in contact. Even if you reduce burdensome gatherings, check that you still have channels for receiving necessary help.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-criteria-should-you-use-to-choose-hobbies-and-work\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-criteria-should-you-use-to-choose-hobbies-and-work\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat Criteria Should You Use to Choose Hobbies and Work?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoose activities after retirement based on the experiences you want and the burdens you can handle. A hobby that family members think is good may not suit you. At the same time, there is no reason to rule out the possibility of developing new interests.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you find fulfillment in earning money, you can consider paid activities. Regardless of income, you may also want activities through which you can learn or contribute. In either case, the person who has the right to choose should decide personally.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eActivity\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eQuestions that help with the choice\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBurdens to adjust\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Activity\"\u003ePaid activity\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Questions that help with the choice\"\u003eWhich do you expect more from it, income or a role?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Burdens to adjust\"\u003eWork intensity and travel burden\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Activity\"\u003eLearning and creative work\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Questions that help with the choice\"\u003eIs this something you genuinely want to try?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Burdens to adjust\"\u003eTuition and schedule\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Activity\"\u003eVolunteering and community activities\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Questions that help with the choice\"\u003eHow would you like to contribute?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Burdens to adjust\"\u003eScope of responsibility and frequency of participation\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Activity\"\u003eLeisure at home\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Questions that help with the choice\"\u003eDoes it help you maintain a daily rhythm while enjoying yourself?\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Burdens to adjust\"\u003eTime that displaces sleep, meals, or movement\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWatching YouTube is also a leisure option. However, it cannot be assumed that it is always a suitable hobby for introverted people. Consider whether watching it is displacing necessary daily activities and communication.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-to-adjust-a-relationship-when-it-feels-uncomfortable\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-to-adjust-a-relationship-when-it-feels-uncomfortable\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow to Adjust a Relationship When It Feels Uncomfortable\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the relationship is safe, describe the uncomfortable behavior and the change you want in specific terms. Judging the other person’s entire personality makes it difficult to narrow down the problem. The statements below are examples of conversation, not quotations of actual remarks.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdentify the behavior. “I feel uncomfortable when you make fun of my choices in front of other people.”\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eState the change you want. “Please stop using that expression.”\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExplain your limit. “It is difficult for me to attend gatherings at this price.”\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDecide what you will do if the boundary is not respected. “If this continues, I’ll end today’s conversation.”\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBased on their subsequent behavior, adjust how and how often you meet.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn a relationship involving threats, you do not need to try to persuade the other person directly. First secure a safe place and someone who can help you. In such situations, ensuring safety comes before repairing the relationship.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview your own way of communicating by the same standards. Check whether you frequently interrupt the other person. Before giving advice, ask whether they want to hear it. Also consider whether you repeatedly try to persuade them after they have refused.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#common-mistakes-in-relationships-with-children-and-spouses\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"common-mistakes-in-relationships-with-children-and-spouses\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCommon Mistakes in Relationships With Children and Spouses\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFamily relationships cannot be stabilized through money or silence alone. Discuss expectations about communication, visits, and financial support. Who will provide care also needs to be discussed separately.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCommon interpretation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eLimitation of the judgment\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common interpretation\"\u003ePaying for meals will preserve the relationship\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Limitation of the judgment\"\u003eSpending alone cannot guarantee respect or closeness\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eHow costs are shared and satisfaction with meetings\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common interpretation\"\u003eGiving children an allowance will reduce conflict\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Limitation of the judgment\"\u003eFinancial support and relationship problems are separate issues\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eThe communication and scope of support each person wants\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common interpretation\"\u003eLess communication means they dislike me\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Limitation of the judgment\"\u003eIt may be due to health, schedules, or caregiving circumstances\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eThe actual circumstances before making assumptions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common interpretation\"\u003eLate-life divorce leads to estrangement from children\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Limitation of the judgment\"\u003eThere is no basis for applying this to every family\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eThe circumstances and safety of each relationship\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common interpretation\"\u003eFamily members must continue providing care\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Limitation of the judgment\"\u003eCaregivers also have limits\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eSustainable roles and alternative support\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not make decisions about your marital relationship based only on fear of estrangement from your children. The nature of the conflict and safety concerns should each be examined. Consult a professional in your area about property, housing, and legal issues.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#is-health-in-older-age-determined-only-by-weight-and-walking-ability\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"is-health-in-older-age-determined-only-by-weight-and-walking-ability\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIs Health in Older Age Determined Only by Weight and Walking Ability?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHealthy ageing is not determined solely by weight or the ability to walk independently. WHO focuses on the ability to do what a person values. Being completely free of disease is not a requirement for healthy ageing.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can find the definition in WHO’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/healthy-ageing-and-functional-ability\"\u003eHealthy ageing and functional ability Q\u0026amp;A\u003c/a\u003e. This explanation includes not only physical capacity but also the living environment. Walking aids and accessible transportation are also resources that support activity.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-should-you-check-before-losing-weight\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-should-you-check-before-losing-weight\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat Should You Check Before Losing Weight?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn older age, the need for weight loss should be assessed individually. NIA explains that weight alone does not provide enough information about health. Being underweight and unintentional weight loss should also be considered. Consult a healthcare professional before trying to change your weight.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck whether you are eating less or have less appetite than before.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWatch for weight loss that you did not intend.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecord whether you have become weaker along with the weight change.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscuss your weight-loss goal together with ways to maintain nutrition and muscle.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese criteria are based on NIA’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/maintaining-healthy-weight\"\u003eMaintaining a Healthy Weight\u003c/a\u003e. Do not reduce the amount you eat simply because you are older. If you have pain or difficulty moving, discuss the cause and the support you need.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#when-should-you-seek-help-for-emotional-changes\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"when-should-you-seek-help-for-emotional-changes\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhen Should You Seek Help for Emotional Changes?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeek counseling if distress or a decline in your ability to manage daily life persists. WHO explains that mental health conditions in older age are often not adequately identified. Low mood and anxiety should not be dismissed as simply due to age.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChanges in income or roles after retirement can be burdensome. Bereavement and caregiving burdens can also affect mental health. Relevant information is available in \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-of-older-adults\"\u003eMental health of older adults\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#a-contact-network-and-backup-plan-to-prevent-gaps-in-care\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"a-contact-network-and-backup-plan-to-prevent-gaps-in-care\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eA Contact Network and Backup Plan to Prevent Gaps in Care\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCare planning needs to include arrangements for when the primary caregiver is unavailable. There is no need to rank whether family members or paid caregivers are more important. Write down the necessary roles and possible alternatives in specific terms.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe items below are examples of plans that can be applied to later life. They are not an established system or an official assessment chart. Keep your wishes at the center and confirm with the people involved what is possible.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check in advance\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eThe usual caregiver becomes ill\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check in advance\"\u003eAn alternative contact person and available services\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eMedical attention is suddenly needed\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check in advance\"\u003eTransportation and whether someone can accompany you\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eCommunication becomes difficult\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check in advance\"\u003eWho should be informed of your usual care preferences\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eMoving around the home becomes difficult\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check in advance\"\u003eObstacles involving thresholds, bathrooms, and routes in and out\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eDiscomfort or unfair treatment occurs during care\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check in advance\"\u003eA channel for reporting the problem to someone other than the person responsible\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou should not have to endure discomfort in order to receive respectful care. Being courteous to caregivers is different from giving up your rights. Adding this contact network to your review of living expenses can also help you prepare for gaps in care.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Decision Making","Self Management","Healthy aging"],"faqs":[{"question":"Should I end my relationship with a friend who complains a lot after retirement?","answer":"You do not need to decide to end the relationship based on complaints alone. Consider whether insults and coercion occur repeatedly. Another criterion is whether they respect you when you say you are uncomfortable or refuse something."},{"question":"If I am comfortable being alone, is it okay not to attend gatherings?","answer":"You do not need to force yourself to attend gatherings you do not want to join. However, distinguish between preferring to rest alone and lacking connections you can turn to for help. Check whether there is a person or service you can contact when you are sick."},{"question":"How many friends should I have after retirement?","answer":"The guidance on which this article is based does not specify an appropriate number of friends. You should consider both the number and quality of your relationships, as well as the actual support they provide. A key criterion is whether you can connect with someone when needed."},{"question":"Do enough money and time guarantee a happy retirement?","answer":"Money and time alone cannot guarantee happiness. Health, relationships, and your living environment should also be considered. Distinguishing between money and time is a tool for identifying constraints in your daily life."},{"question":"Can I continue doing paid work as a hobby?","answer":"You may choose paid activities if you want to. However, consider the intensity of the work and the burden of travel. You should not be pressured to work simply because your family prefers it."},{"question":"Can watching YouTube be a hobby in retirement?","answer":"You can choose it as an enjoyable leisure activity. However, it cannot be assumed to suit every introvert. Check whether it interferes with sleep, meals, physical activity, or necessary communication."},{"question":"Do I need to support my children financially to maintain our relationship?","answer":"Financial support is not a condition that guarantees a good relationship. Discuss your expectations regarding contact and visits with each other. Decide on financial support separately, taking your own living circumstances into account."},{"question":"Does a late-life divorce also lead to estrangement from my children?","answer":"This is not an outcome that applies to every family. The circumstances and safety concerns of each relationship should be considered separately. Consult a professional in your area about property and legal matters."},{"question":"Do I have to lose weight as I get older?","answer":"The need for weight loss varies from person to person. Being underweight and experiencing unintentional weight loss should also be assessed. Consult a healthcare professional about your nutritional and muscle health before trying to manage your weight."},{"question":"Does using a walking aid mean I am moving away from healthy aging?","answer":"The use of an assistive device alone does not determine whether someone is aging healthily. WHO emphasizes the ability to engage in activities one values. Assistive devices and accessible environments can support those activities."},{"question":"Is depression after retirement natural and something I should endure?","answer":"Seek counseling if distress or a decline in your ability to manage daily life persists. Do not dismiss mental health issues as simply being due to age. You can also discuss support for retirement, bereavement, and caregiving burdens."},{"question":"If my family has agreed to care for me, do I need an additional plan?","answer":"Also consider alternatives for when family members are ill or unavailable. You can make a list of backup contacts and transportation options together. First confirm the willingness and capacity of the person who will take on the role."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/social-connection","title":"WHO — Social connection, June 30, 2025","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/abuse-of-older-people","title":"WHO — Abuse of older people, June 15, 2024","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ageing-and-health","title":"WHO — Ageing and health, October 1, 2025","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/healthy-ageing-and-functional-ability","title":"WHO — Healthy ageing and functional ability, October 26, 2020","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/maintaining-healthy-weight","title":"NIA — Maintaining a Healthy Weight, reviewed April 7, 2022","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-of-older-adults","title":"WHO — Mental health of older adults, July 20, 2026","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":1340,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTkyNDUsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--2b9e688bafcc18e135d810f9185ed2d59ce9e652/ai-749c9328.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"상담실에서 지팡이를 곁에 둔 노년 여성이 두 사람과 자료를 보며 대화하는 모습","caption":"노년 여성이 상담자들과 자료를 살펴보며 은퇴 후 생활에 관해 이야기하고 있다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Older woman with a cane discussing documents with two people in a consultation room","caption":"An older woman reviews materials with advisers while discussing life after retirement.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"相談室で杖をそばに置いた高齢女性が二人と資料を見ながら話す様子","caption":"高齢女性が相談員と資料を確認しながら、退職後の暮らしについて話している。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Mujer mayor con bastón conversa con dos personas y revisa documentos en una sala de consulta","caption":"Una mujer mayor revisa información con asesores mientras habla sobre la vida tras la jubilación.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Perempuan lansia dengan tongkat membahas dokumen bersama dua orang di ruang konsultasi","caption":"Seorang perempuan lansia meninjau materi bersama penasihat sambil membahas kehidupan setelah pensiun.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Mulher idosa com bengala conversa com duas pessoas e analisa documentos em uma sala de atendimento","caption":"Uma mulher idosa analisa materiais com orientadores enquanto conversa sobre a vida após a aposentadoria.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名拄杖的年長女性在諮詢室與兩人查看資料並交談","caption":"年長女性與諮詢人員查看資料，討論退休後的生活。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ältere Frau mit Gehstock bespricht in einem Beratungsraum Unterlagen mit zwei Personen","caption":"Eine ältere Frau prüft mit Beratenden Unterlagen und spricht über das Leben nach dem Ruhestand.","description":null}}},{"id":1341,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTkyNTEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--99bddb4a4a9a25f71856e39bd26d97720601cbd0/ai-86521607.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_semi","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"현관에서 스마트폰을 든 노년 여성과 가방을 멘 채 웃는 중년 여성","caption":"두 여성이 반갑게 만나며 은퇴 후에도 이어지는 따뜻한 인간관계를 보여준다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Older woman holding a smartphone beside a smiling visitor with a shoulder bag","caption":"A warm visit highlights the value of staying socially connected after retirement.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"玄関でスマートフォンを持つ高齢女性と、バッグを肩に掛けて微笑む女性","caption":"二人の温かな交流が、退職後も人とのつながりを保つ大切さを伝えている。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Mujer mayor con un teléfono junto a una visitante sonriente con bolso al hombro","caption":"Un encuentro cordial refleja la importancia de mantener vínculos sociales tras la jubilación.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Perempuan lansia memegang ponsel bersama tamu tersenyum yang membawa tas bahu","caption":"Pertemuan hangat ini menunjukkan pentingnya menjaga hubungan sosial setelah pensiun.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Idosa com celular ao lado de uma visitante sorridente com bolsa a tiracolo","caption":"O encontro afetuoso destaca a importância dos vínculos sociais após a aposentadoria.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"玄關裡拿著手機的年長女性與揹著肩背包微笑來訪的女性","caption":"兩人的溫暖互動展現退休後維持人際連結的重要性。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ältere Frau mit Smartphone neben einer lächelnden Besucherin mit Schultertasche","caption":"Die herzliche Begegnung zeigt, wie wichtig soziale Kontakte nach dem Ruhestand sind.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-09-17T01:54:38+09:00","updated_at":"2026-09-17T01:54:38+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/retirement-relationships-and-healthy-ageing"}