Phases of Retirement

Over the next few posts, I am going to look at the Phases of Retirement. The first post will define the phases, the next few will examine what happens in each phase.

Definitions of Phases

Individuals in the Independent Phase of later life have no physical limitations.

Individuals in the Decline Phase of later life have mild physical limitations, including difficulty with one or more of the following activities:

• Walking 100 yards

• Sitting for about two hours

• Getting up from a chair after sitting for long periods

• Climbing several flights of stairs without resting

• Stooping, kneeling or crouching

• Reaching or extending arms above shoulder level (either arm)

• Pulling or pushing large objects, like a living room chair

• Lifting or carrying weights over 10 pounds, like a heavy shopping bag of groceries

• Picking up a 25 cent coin from a table

• Using a map to figure out how to get around in a strange place

• Recognising when you are in physical danger

• Preparing a hot meal

• Shopping for groceries

• Doing work around the house or garden

Individuals in the Dependent Phase of later life have severe physical limitations including difficulty with one or more of the following activities:

• Climbing one flight of stairs without resting

• Dressing, including putting on shoes and socks

• Walking across a room

• Bathing or showering

• Eating, such as cutting up food

• Getting in or out of bed

• Using the toilet, including getting up or down

• Making telephone calls

• Communication (speech, hearing or eyesight)

• Taking medications

• Managing money, such as paying bills and keeping track of expenses