changing for the baby boomer gen- eration. Today’s retirees are healthier, have more energy and are driven by different values than previous gen- erations. Many see retirement not as an escape but as an opportunity to connect more deeply with friends, family and their neighborhoods. Jim Winslow, already an active
volunteer, put it this way: “For those of us fortunate enough to be able to retire, retirement is a giſt from God. It is a special time to serve others and enrich ourselves and our families.”
By the numbers Te sheer number of retirees in America is astounding—75 million baby boomers are on the verge, and for the next 20 years an average of 10,000 people will each day reach age 65 (historically the retirement phase of life), according to U.S. News & World Report. At Shepherd of the Valley, more than 1,500 mem- bers are age 55 and older. “Every meeting of this group
amazes me,” Jane Stubblefield said. “We are so blessed to have a large group of retired (or almost retired) people eager to contribute their tal- ents and energy to the church, and also willing to grow and take some risks at this stage of their lives.” Linda Prince, who has helped
plan the Purposeful Retirement meetings, has been impressed by the conversations. “People are living vital, purposeful lives already in retirement,” she said. “I am learning a lot from them.” Kristi Kuhnau, who took a lead
role in getting the program started, noticed how hungry retirees are for connections and a sense of commu- nity. “Replacing one’s social career network is one of the hardest things about retirement,” she said. “Our hope is that Purposeful Retirement events give us a way to create that
needed community.” Participants have also bonded
over shared interests. Last summer several “affinity groups” began meet- ing for outings and activities based on common interests. For example, Judy Hartfiel helps coordinate the Soul Steppers (pun intended), a walking group. Kuhnau summed it up this way: “It helps us realize the great poten-
tial for making a contribution in our retirement and what our contribu- tion could be.”
Author bio: Milis, an attorney, is using his recently retired status for travel and church activities. He is a board member of the Minnesota Literacy Council and lives in Apple Valley.
Grace-Filled Florida Retirement
Living Life Fully
Nestled in Central Florida since 1948, Lutheran Haven celebrates its long tradition of comfortable and affordable retirement for Lutherans.
Current Residents enjoy: • The Christ-centered, faith-based community where residents continue to fi nd ways to serve
• The warm, friendly and inviting location and atmosphere • The active, maintenance-free lifestyle • The continuum of services offered – Independent & Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing & Home Healthcare
Reservations have begun on a new two-story independent living apartment home complex and the grand opening of a new Memory Care Unit will be held early this summer. Contact us for more information or stop in for a visit.
2041 West SR 426, Oviedo, Florida 32765 1.800.272.5676 •
marketing@lutheranhaven.org
June 2015 33
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