Issue 37: The Retirement Buzz

Veteran Voices & Seasonal Shifts: Honoring the Past, Grounding in the Present

Author

Retirement Dreammaker
November 16, 2025

RIDDLE OF THE WEEK

I’m taken from a mine, shut in a wooden case, and used by many. What am I?

(Answer at the bottom!)

Arthritis Awareness Month: Are You Managing Inflammation or Ignoring It?

Over 58.5 million U.S. adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis, with retirees making up the majority. The CDC confirms that arthritis is the leading cause of disability among older adults, often worsened by inactivity, poor diet, or untreated inflammation.

Recommended therapies:

  • Tai Chi (low-impact joint movement + balance)

  • Aqua Therapy (gentle resistance without joint strain)

  • Anti-inflammatory diet staples: salmon, berries, turmeric, olive oil, spinach

💬 “I can’t run marathons anymore, but I walk every morning and stretch like it’s my job,” says Denise H., 72, from Oregon. “The pain’s not gone—but I’ve taken my life back.”

✔️ Fact Check Source:

Avoid This Year-End Pitfall: Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)

If you're 73 or older, you must withdraw your RMD from traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, or other tax-deferred accounts by December 31, or face a 25% penalty on the amount you didn’t take (formerly 50% until the SECURE Act 2.0 update).

Quick Tips:

  • Use RMDs to make Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)—lower your tax bill while supporting causes you care about

  • Automate withdrawals or set calendar reminders

  • Coordinate with your financial advisor now, not later

💬 “Last year, I forgot until December 29,” laughs Jerry W., 74, from Kentucky. “Never again. I set a Thanksgiving reminder now.”

✔️ Fact Check Source:

😂 JOKE OF THE WEEK

Why did the scarecrow become a successful motivational speaker?

Because he was outstanding in his field!

Veterans in the Family: How to Open Up Space for Their Stories

The Veterans History Project has recorded over 115,000 interviews with U.S. veterans. Many say it wasn’t medals they wanted to pass on—it was stories, wisdom, and life lessons.

Gentle prompts that work:

  • “What did your uniform mean to you?”

  • “What music reminds you of that time?”

  • “What was your greatest act of courage—big or small?”

💬 “I never talked much about Vietnam until my granddaughter asked me to record a video,” said James T., 80, of Ohio. “Now we watch it every Veterans Day.”

✔️ Fact Check Source:

Fall Craft Fairs Are Back—Here’s How to Showcase Your Passion

Craft fairs saw a strong resurgence in fall 2024 and 2025, with senior-led booths comprising 30–40% of many local events. Why? They offer connection, creativity, and in many cases, a little extra income.

Success tips:

  • Include a handwritten tag explaining your process or history

  • Offer small, giftable items under $20

  • Accept cash and digital payments (Venmo, Zelle)

💬 “I sold 18 hand-knitted scarves and made enough for Christmas gifts,” says Arlene M., 77, from Minnesota. “But more than that—I made friends.”

✔️ Fact Check Source:

AARP: Crafting as Income and Connection

Retreat Doesn’t Always Mean ‘Go Away’—Sometimes It Means ‘Come Back to Yourself’

A growing number of retirees are embracing “micro-retreats”—short, intentional moments of stillness and renewal. Studies show even 10–15 minutes of spiritual quiet can reduce cortisol, improve focus, and increase peace of mind.

Ideas that work:

  • Light a candle before journaling

  • Turn off all devices for your morning tea

  • Walk your neighborhood with a word or prayer in mind

💬 “My retreat is in my living room,” says Loretta H., 68. “A blanket, a candle, and five minutes of quiet. It changes everything.”

✔️ Fact Check Source:

🧩 RIDDLE ANSWER

A pencil.

🎖️ MILITARY & HOLIDAY RECOGNITIONS

🇺🇸 Nov 11: Veterans Day – Honoring All Who Served

Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day in 1919, marking the end of WWI. In 1954, it was renamed to honor all U.S. veterans, living and deceased.

Parades, flag ceremonies, and oral history interviews are common traditions during this week across the U.S. Many communities are also recognizing women veterans and BIPOC service members through local events.

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