Issue 36: The Retirement Buzz

Season of Strength: Staying Rooted as the Weather Turns

Author

Retirement Dreammaker
November 09, 2025

RIDDLE OF THE WEEK

I fall but never rise. I sound but never speak. What am I?

(Answer at the bottom!)

It’s Time for Your RSV Vaccine: What Retirees Need to Know

The CDC continues to recommend RSV vaccination for adults aged 60+, particularly those with heart disease, asthma, diabetes, or weakened immune systems. New data shows the 2024–25 RSV season is expected to peak earlier, making early fall an ideal time to get vaccinated.

Key Fact: RSV causes 177,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths annually among older adults in the U.S. (CDC, 2025).

💬 “I didn’t even know adults could get RSV,” said Mary Ellis, 69, of Denver. “My doctor said it’s just as risky as the flu at my age. I got all three—COVID, flu, and RSV—and feel ready for winter.”

Medicare Open Enrollment Heats Up: Avoid These Costly Mistakes

According to KFF, 37% of Medicare Advantage enrollees will see changes in drug coverage for 2026. Some plans are dropping common medications or raising co-pays, especially for cholesterol and blood pressure drugs.

Key Tip: Use the Medicare Plan Finder tool to compare Part D (drug) plans. It’s updated daily and includes pharmacy discounts and preferred pricing.

💬 “Last year I didn’t check and suddenly my heart meds cost $90 more,” said Robert Yang, 72, from Tampa. “Now I check everything—and switched plans last week.”

😂 JOKE OF THE WEEK

Why did the turkey refuse to play cards?

Because he was afraid of getting stuffed!

Grief Isn’t Always Loud: How to Support Friends After Loss

Grief experts say November through January is the hardest time for widowed seniors. The National Institute on Aging reports that nearly 1 in 3 retirees struggle with “quiet grief”—not outward tears, but internal loneliness, especially around shared holidays.

Simple gestures like mailing a photo, texting a memory, or dropping off warm food can have real emotional and even physical health benefits, according to Harvard researchers.

💬 “People forget we’re still grieving, even after a year,” said Phyllis R., 78. “A neighbor brought me pumpkin bread with a note that just said, ‘I’m thinking of you.’ I cried. It meant the world.”

National Novel Writing Month: You Don’t Have to Be a Writer to Start

NaNoWriMo isn’t just for novelists anymore. In 2024, over 20,000 adults over 60 joined the challenge to start memoirs, poetry collections, or even “legacy letters” to grandkids.

Writing for just 15 minutes a day can improve cognitive resilience, memory, and even reduce symptoms of depression, according to a 2025 NIH-funded study on expressive writing in older adults.

💬 “I’m not a writer. I’m a grandmother,” laughed Doris Bell, 76, from Oregon. “But I’ve got stories—and I’m finally writing them down.”

Finding Sacred Stillness in the Shorter Days

As daylight shortens, many seniors report lower energy but higher emotional clarity—if they slow down with intention. Quiet rituals like tea before sunset, a 5-minute “candle moment,” or just walking in silence help maintain inner rhythm during seasonal change.

Faith leaders from multiple traditions—from Buddhist monks to Christian chaplains—encourage simple, embodied practices over formal ceremonies in fall.

💬 “Stillness became my strength,” said retired pastor Joel Harris, 80. “I spend 10 minutes every day watching the light fade from my porch. It tells me I’m alive—and at peace.”

Complementary Source:
The Center for Spirituality & Aging – Fall Rituals Guide
Psychology Today: The Power of Seasonal Stillness

🧩 RIDDLE ANSWER

An echo.

Just like the past, it speaks, even when it’s quiet.

🎖️ MILITARY & HOLIDAY RECOGNITIONS

🇺🇸 Nov 10: U.S. Marine Corps Birthday (250th Anniversary)

Founded in 1775, the Marine Corps celebrates its 250th anniversary this year. Veteran organizations like VFW, American Legion, and Marine Corps League are hosting events nationwide.

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