The retirement crisis nobody warns you about

Retirement is supposed to be a time to enjoy life, but for so many people, it is not all that we dreamed it would be.

This year alone, more than 4 million Americans are expected to turn 65 years old and reach the traditional retirement age.

While many plan for the financial side of retirement, experts say that there is a risk few people prepare for: losing their sense of purpose.

Research shows that about one in four adults over 65 is socially isolated.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports loneliness in older adults can increase the risk of heart disease by 29% and stroke by 32%.

The moment that some people walk away from their job, they also walk away from a huge part of who they are and what they have known. That identity shift can hit some people hard.

Experts say the key to avoiding this is planning for purpose, not just paychecks. They also suggest asking yourself these important questions: What do I want out of life when I am no longer working? What do I want my retirement to look like?

Experts say the key is staying engaged through volunteering, learning new skills, staying active, or even part-time work.

Studies show that older adults who stay socially engaged have lower rates of depression and have a 20% lower risk of death compared to those who are socially isolated.

Overall, experts say the best time to plan for your retirement life is before you actually leave your career.

If you are worried about this transition, there are resources that offer online tools, community programs and even second career guidance to help retirees find purpose after work.

Programs - CoGenerate

AARP® Official Site - Join & Explore the Benefits

If you want to volunteer but do not know where to start, the link below will help you find opportunities in your own community.

VolunteerMatch