Issue 21: The Retirement Buzz

🧩 RIDDLE OF THE WEEK

I am passed down but never worn. I grow stronger the more it's shared.

What am I?

Multi-Generational Living Improves Health in Older Adults

For years, retirement culture promoted independence as the gold standard. But today, more retirees are rediscovering the benefits of multi-generational living—and the health results are undeniable.

According to a 2024 AARP study, older adults living with or near family reported:

• 30% lower rates of loneliness

• Improved cardiovascular health

• Better sleep and emotional resilience

Bernice, 76, lives in a guest house behind her daughter’s home in Ohio. “Being around family gives me a reason to stay active—and stay hopeful,” she says.

These benefits aren’t just emotional. The Journal of Aging and Health found that seniors living in multi-generational households showed lower blood pressure and slower cognitive decline compared to those living alone.

This echoes the inspiring story of Tom Halvorsen, a 73-year-old retiree who continues mentoring his grandkids—and building water systems abroad. His presence at home, and purpose abroad, both contribute to his wellness.

Family isn’t just good for the soul—it’s medicine for the body, too.

Grandparents Increasingly Helping Grandkids with College Costs

When it comes to legacy, money is only part of the picture. For today’s retirees, the focus is shifting toward financial mentorship—not just inheritance.

According to Fidelity’s 2025 College Savings Trends Report, 37% of grandparents are now contributing to 529 college savings plans. And many aren’t stopping there—they’re teaching grandkids financial literacy via summer Zoom chats, group budgeting games, or even cash-matching incentives.

Harold, 71, explains it best: “We don’t just want to leave money—we want to leave wisdom.”

In Tampa, Steve and Marlene Conners rented out part of their home to create extra income—some of which now funds their grandchildren’s college savings. “It’s not charity,” Marlene said. “It’s investment—with interest paid in pride.”

Experts agree. Early exposure to financial tools helps younger generations avoid debt and build confidence. And when it comes from a trusted elder? That lesson sticks for life.

Knowledge is the real inheritance.

😄 JOKE OF THE WEEK

Why did grandma join TikTok?

To keep up with her grandkids… and to show off her salsa dancing! 💃📱

Retired Cousins Plan Annual Family Legacy Camp

Down in Alabama, two retired cousins—Janine and Charles—wanted to do something meaningful for their sprawling family. The result? A 3-day Family Legacy Camp, where kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids gather to learn, laugh, and live out their shared values.

“We teach everything from how to tell a joke to how to write a will,” says Janine. “It’s powerful and personal.”

Each day includes:

• Morning devotionals and family storytelling

• Legacy skill workshops (gardening, letter writing, genealogy)

• Fireside chats about values, faith, and family resilience

This story aligns beautifully with Donella, 68—who said retirement gave her “time to love again.” It’s a reminder that love doesn’t retire—it repurposes.

Family legacy camps are part of a growing national trend. According to the Legacy Coalition, more than 1 in 5 American retirees now actively plan multi-generational events or workshops to pass down more than just heirlooms.

This is leadership at its finest—done with grilled burgers, handwritten prayers, and a few water balloon fights.

The Rise of Glam Grandmas: Fashion After 60

Who says style fades with age? Across Instagram and community centers alike, “glam grandmas” are proving that retirement is the perfect time to reclaim creativity through fashion.

Ella, 70, struts her signature bold lipstick and bright floral hats in downtown Savannah, Georgia. “It’s not for them,” she says. “It’s for me.”

And she’s far from alone. The hashtag #GlamGrandma has over 500,000 tags on Instagram, and accounts like @advancedstyle have launched entire fashion shows featuring women in their 60s, 70s, and 80s redefining what style looks like post-retirement.

This creative renaissance mirrors the journey of Gina Delgado, 81—who published her first book of poetry this year after decades of keeping her words private. Whether it’s fashion or verse, retirees are choosing boldness over invisibility.

So next time you open your closet, ask yourself: What makes you feel most like you?

Because style isn’t just fabric. It’s freedom.

Parenthood as a Lifelong Calling

July brings Parents’ Day, a moment to honor the deep truth many retirees are now living: parenthood doesn’t end when your kids grow up—it simply changes shape.

Albert, 74, puts it this way: “I’m still raising my kids. Not with rules—but with presence, example, and love.”

Across churches, senior centers, and family gatherings, older parents are embracing this phase with wisdom, patience, and intentional mentorship. Studies from the American Psychological Association confirm that adult children who maintain close ties with their retired parents report higher life satisfaction and stronger coping skills.

This message is echoed by Ruth, 73—who found new spiritual peace through meditation and reflection after years of nonstop caregiving. Parenthood, in retirement, becomes less about control and more about guidance and grace.

Whether it's sharing a meal, giving advice, or just showing up—your role still matters. And that’s the quiet power of legacy.

🌸 HOLIDAY FEATURE

Celebrate Legacy, Style & Family Ties: July’s Meaningful Moments

July brings more than fireworks—it brings celebrations of family, confidence, and connection. This week, we honor two heartwarming holidays that remind us how beauty, joy, and belonging only grow with time.

July 23 – Gorgeous Grandma Day

Started in the 1980s by author Alice Solomon, Gorgeous Grandma Day was created to challenge stereotypes about aging and to celebrate vibrant, empowered women 50 and older. Today, it's a tribute to grandmothers who radiate confidence, creativity, and wisdom—whether in sneakers or stilettos.

All across the country, “glam grandmas” are embracing bold style, photography, blogging, and even modeling. The message? Aging isn’t something to hide—it’s something to flaunt.

Take inspiration from Ella, 70, who said: “It’s not for them. It’s for me.”

How to celebrate:

• Post your favorite photo of yourself with #GorgeousGrandmaDay

• Compliment a stylish woman in your life

• Wear something bold—just because it makes you feel amazing

July 24 – National Cousins Day

Cousins are often our first best friends, life-long allies, and story-keepers. National Cousins Day is the perfect moment to reconnect with those who know your family history—and your most embarrassing childhood moments.

In Alabama, two retired cousins started a Family Legacy Camp, hosting grandkids, games, and storytelling circles every year.

“We teach everything from how to tell a joke to how to write a will,” said organizer Janine.

Cousins Day is about honoring those ties—and building new memories.

How to celebrate:

• Call or text a cousin you haven’t seen in a while

• Share a throwback photo or family story

• Start planning your next family get-together or legacy camp

July 28, 2025 - Celebrate National Parents’ Day

While Mother’s and Father’s Day get the spotlight, National Parents’ Day honors all parents—biological, adoptive, step, and spiritual—who lead with love and legacy.

This July 28, take time to:

• Write a note to your parents or parent-figures

• Reflect on the lessons you’ve passed down

• Share your story with the next generation

Because family isn’t just who raised you—it’s who remembers you.

This July, whether you're embracing silver-streaked glam or reliving backyard antics with your cousins, take a moment to recognize the power of family, self-expression, and lasting bonds.

Because growing older doesn’t mean stepping back—it means stepping into your own legacy.

🧩 RIDDLE ANSWER

Answer: Legacy.

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