Retired Happily

🌟 Navigating the Holiday Blues in Retirement: Finding Joy 🌟
Hey there, wonderful community! The holiday season is upon us, filled with sparkly lights, heartwarming carols, and the promise of good times with loved ones. But let's face it—retirement can make this time of year a little more challenging for some of us.
👪 Separated from family? 🎄 Missing old traditions? 🙇‍♀️ Feeling a lack of purpose?
We get it. And we're here to help!
We've just published an in-depth guide addressing the emotional challenges retirees can face during the holiday season. We offer practical tips for reconnecting with your loved ones virtually, embracing new traditions, and much more!
👉 Read the full post here: Navigating the Holiday Blues in Retirement

Let's turn those holiday blues into a season filled with joy, connection, and fulfillment! 💖

🍽️ Holiday Feasting Without Failing! 🍽️

Ready for Part 2 of our New Year, New You journey? We're diving into navigating the holiday feasting season with grace. 🎉

It's no secret that the holidays can challenge our self-improvement goals. It's easy to lose track, from Aunt Carol's famous pies to those tempting eggnogs. But fret not! We've got some fantastic tips to help you maintain balance.

🔑 Moderation is Key: Enjoy your holiday treats but in moderation. One slice of Aunt Carol's pie instead of three can make all the difference.

📝 Plan Your Indulgences: Be proactive. If you know you'll be tempted, plan for it. Whether it's eating a bit lighter before a big family meal or squeezing in a workout, planning can keep you on track.

🥂 Ringing in the New Year: The New Year isn't just a date change; it's a fresh start. Take a deep breath and say, "Let's do this!"

🧠 The Science of Motivation: Learn about the science behind motivation and how it can help you stay committed to your goals. Dopamine, the 'feel good' neurotransmitter, plays a significant role.

Join us on this journey of self-improvement and celebrate the holidays mindfully. Your goals are within reach, even during the festive season! 🌟

🌟 Hey Everyone! 🌟

Ever wondered how GPS technology affects memory, especially in our beloved seniors? 🤔

GPS has revolutionized how we navigate, making it super convenient. But, it turns out there might be some downsides, especially for our elderly loved ones. 🧓👵

Discover the surprising ways in which GPS can impact memory and what you can do to keep your senior's cognitive skills sharp. 🧠💪

Read the full blog post at retiredhappily.com/post/how-gps-impacts-memory-in-seniors and help your loved ones stay mentally fit! 💡🚗


Instagram Post: 🌟 Discover the Impact of GPS on Senior Memory 🌟

GPS technology has made navigation a breeze, but did you know it could affect memory, especially in seniors? 🤯
Explore the surprising connection between GPS and memory decline, and find out how to keep your loved ones mentally sharp. 🧠💖

Read the full blog at retiredhappily.com/post/how-gps-impacts-memory-in-seniors to learn more! 🚗🧓

🏡✨ Unlock the Secret to an "Upsized" Retirement with Downsizing! 🌟

Have you ever wondered how moving into a smaller home can actually lead to an even bigger retirement experience? It's all about embracing quality, curating your possessions, and gaining more precious time for what truly matters. 🏞️🧡

Discover the incredible benefits of downsizing in our latest blog post! From pursuing your passions to becoming an active part of your community, there's a world of possibilities waiting for you. 🌍✈️

Read the full story at https://www.retiredhappily.com/post/why-downsizing-could-be-your-key-to-an-upsized-retirement and embark on your journey to an "upsized" retirement! 🏡🌟

🌟 Unwrap Stress-Free Holidays 🎁

Ah, the holidays! 🎄 A time for joy, not stress. Join us in mastering the art of holiday hosting. Let's make your gatherings a breeze! Here are 10 tips to get you started:

1 Plan Ahead: Create a timeline.
2 Simplify the Menu: Go potluck-style!
3 Delegate Tasks: Enlist help.
4 Set a Budget: No financial worries.
5 Create a Cozy Atmosphere: Warm and inviting.
6 Manage the Guest List: Prioritize loved ones.
7 Offer Alternatives: Cater to preferences.
8 Simplify Decorations: Focus on key areas.
9 Embrace DIY: Get creative!
10 Relax and Enjoy: Be present and joyful.

Unwrap relaxation and joy this holiday season. 🎉

Goto RetiredHappily.com for full post

🌟 Unwrap the Secret to Thriving Through the Holidays and Greeting the New Year with Gusto! 🌟

Hey there, holiday enthusiasts! 🎄 Are you ready to dive into the magic of the holiday season and step into the New Year with open arms? 🎁 It's closer than you think, with Christmas items already adorning the stores!

Join us on a journey as we unwrap the keys to thriving through the holidays and making 2024 the best year yet! From festive cheer to stress-free celebrations, self-improvement, and healthy holiday indulgence, we've got it all covered.

Are you ready to make this holiday season the most memorable yet and welcome the New Year with open arms? 🎉💃🕺 Stay tuned as we unlock the secrets to thriving through the holidays and stepping boldly into a fantastic New Year. Your journey to joy, fulfillment, and excitement begins now. 🌈🎀

Read the full post at RetiredHappily.com.

🍂 Embracing the First Day of Fall: Seasonal Transitions and Mental Well-being 🍂

Hello, friends! As we prepare to welcome the first day of fall on Saturday the 23rd, let's explore the intriguing relationship between changing seasons and our mental well-being. 🌻
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) The autumn blues are real, and for some, they manifest as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Reduced sunlight, disrupted sleep patterns, and a lack of outdoor activity can lead to feelings of melancholy. 🌅

Overcoming the Autumn Blues But fret not! There are practical strategies to combat the autumn blues and maintain a positive mindset during this time of transition. From light therapy to embracing seasonal foods and planning fun activities, we've got you covered. 🌞

Join us in making this fall a season of growth, self-care, and newfound resilience. 🍁
For the full article and a deeper dive into these strategies, head over to RetiredHappily.com 📖✨

🎉𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀: 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗟𝗮𝘄 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗪𝗶𝗽𝗲 𝗢𝘂𝘁 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗧𝗮𝘅𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗿𝘀!

𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗮𝘅𝗲𝘀 𝗘𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆
Social Security benefits have been subject to federal income taxes for nearly 40 years. However, that could change if a new bill passes through Congress. The Senior Citizens Tax Elimination Act proposes eliminating taxes on Social Security benefits, potentially saving millions of retirees thousands of dollars annually.

This revolutionary bill has steadily gained support, with 25 co-sponsors already signed on. But how likely is it to actually pass? And why were Social Security benefits ever taxed in the first place? To understand this legislation's impact, it's essential to understand the history and current taxation of Social Security benefits.

𝗔 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗛𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝗧𝗮𝘅𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀
Until 1984, Social Security benefits were entirely exempt from federal income taxes. This changed with the 1983 amendments to the Social Security Act, which allowed up to 50% of benefits to be taxed for individuals whose provisional income exceeded certain thresholds. Provisional income includes adjusted gross income, non-taxable interest, and 50% of Social Security benefits.

The Tax Reform Act of 1986 went even further. Up to 85% of benefits could be taxed for provisional incomes exceeding higher thresholds. This seismic shift dramatically increased taxes on seniors, many of whom rely on Social Security as their primary or only source of retirement income.

Under the current system, here's how much of your benefits may be taxed based on your provisional income:

💲0% taxed: Married filing jointly, provisional income under $32,000; Single, provisional income under $25,000
💲Up to 50% taxed: Married filing jointly, provisional income $32,000-$44,000; Single, $25,000-$34,000
💲Up to 85% taxed: Married filing jointly, over $44,000; Single, over $34,000

The average Social Security benefit in 2022 is $1,657 per month or $19,884 per year. With the average retirement income around $40,000, many retirees fall into the 50-85% brackets.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝘂𝘀𝗵 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗧𝗮𝘅 𝗘𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗰𝘁
With so many seniors impacted by Social Security benefit taxes, there has been a strong push in recent years to repeal this taxation entirely. The Senior Citizens Tax Elimination Act represents the latest attempt.

First introduced in 2021 by Senator Mike Enzi (R-WY), the bill currently has 25 bipartisan co-sponsors. It would amend the Internal Revenue Code to exclude Social Security benefits from gross income. This effectively eliminates all federal income taxes on these benefits.

For a deeper review of the information, I have included a link to the Medicare Channel discussing this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Z7rCvjnCFQ

It may be time to write or call your Congressperson. 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲.
https://www.house.gov/representatives

🏓Stay Fit, Stay Social: Pickleball's Winning Combo🏓

Hey there, all you active souls! 🏓 Ready for a game that's a blend of tennis, badminton, and ping pong? 🏓🎉 Say hello to pickleball – the age-defying sport that's taking the world by storm! 🌎🤩 Dive into exhilarating rallies, friendly competition, and a community that welcomes all ages. Let's swing those paddles and stay fit while having a blast! 🏃‍♂️💃 Learn all about the magic of pickleball and where you can play in our latest blog. Join the craze! 🥳 Go to RetiredHappily.com for the full post.😎

Hey there, awesome folks! 🌟 You follow our page; but have you heard about our Facebook group? 🎉 It's the hub for fun, support, and connection! 🤝
Dive into a community where you can share your thoughts, swap stories, and discover some amazing people, this is the place to be! 🌈

📣 What's in it for you, you ask? ✅ Make your own posts and be part of lively discussions ✅ Share your passions, jokes, tips, or just your latest adorable pet pics! 🐶🐱 Get real-time advice and support from friendly faces ✅ Connect with like-minded souls who totally get you. We need you to build a caring Tribe!

Joining our group is like stepping into a warm, cozy hangout where you can let your hair down, laugh, and maybe even make a new BFF. 🥳 Didn't the photo make you want to take a nap?😴

Jump in now! Just hit that 'Join Group' button and let the good times roll! 🎈Can't wait to see you there! 🎊

Cash in Clutter: Maximize Profit with Facebook Marketplace Mastery!

Heading to Facebook Marketplace to sell some of your unwanted stuff? It's so convenient to connect with local buyers, but you've got to be smart and safe!

I just published a complete guide on the blog walking through how to:
💻Set up your seller profile properly
✒️Write listings that grab attention
👍Vet potential buyers
👭Pick safe meetup locations
🤝Get paid securely in cash only
✅Trust your instincts - if anything seems off, it likely is!

Selling on Marketplace is a great way to declutter and make some extra cash, you just need to follow best practices to do it smoothly and securely.

Check out the full article here RetiredHappily.com for all the tips and steps for a safe, successful Marketplace experience. And tag a friend below who needs the info before their next sale!

🌟 Get Ready to Relive the 70s, 80s, and 90s! 🌟 Gas at 50 cents a gallon? Disco fever, neon dreams, grunge anthems – we're diving into the past. Mood rings, Members Only jackets, Tamagotchis – it's all here. Let's rewind and embrace the nostalgia! 🎶🕺 Remember the rotary dial phones and VHS tapes? Join us on a journey down memory lane, celebrating the unforgettable moments that shaped our lives. Visit RetiredHappily.com for the full story

Retirement isn't just about relaxation – it's a chance to make a lasting impact. 🌟 Volunteering opens doors to purpose, connection, and fulfillment, regardless of age. 🤝 Discover the magic of giving back during retirement and explore opportunities that resonate with you. From mentoring entrepreneurs to aiding seniors, there's a perfect fit. 🏠 Let's paint your retirement canvas with purpose! 🎨 Learn more at RetiredHappily.com. Your heart and willingness are what truly matter. 💖

🌟 Unraveling Retirement Myths for a Happier Life! 🌞

Hey there, fellow retirees! 🌼 Ever wondered if your beliefs about aging are on the right track? Let's dive into the truths behind common misconceptions and pave the way for a longer, healthier, and happier retirement journey. 🚀

From the impact of positivity on longevity to the real deal about genetics and aging, we're breaking it all down. 💪 Ready to discover the secrets to a vibrant retirement? Get ready to embrace the best years of your life! 🎉

👉 Read the full article here: https://www.retiredhappily.com/post/myths-shattered-how-to-defy-age-and-unleash-your-full-retirement-potential

Check out my blog post!

Retire, Reconnect, Renew: The Family Edition It's not uncommon for the demands of a long career to inadvertently take precedence over our family relationships.

🐶Who Doesn't Love Our 4 Legged Friends!😽

Pawsitively Perfect Companions: How Furry Friends Enrich Retirement Living Pawsitively Perfect Companions: How Furry Friends Enrich Retirement Living Hey there, fellow retirees! Retirement brings a world of possibilities, but the transition into retirement often means coming home to empty nests and quieter, lonelier homes leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Bu...

A must read if you are wondering about starting Social Security

Maximizing Your Social Security Benefits: Is It Time to Claim? we'll delve into the concept of Full Retirement Age (FRA), explore the pros and cons of starting Social Security early.

Many retirees need to be made aware of the incredible potential of smart home technology to make life more convenient, comfortable, and safe. While younger generations readily embrace the latest apps and gadgets, most retirees need help finding smart home tech. How about you?
http://wix.to/Uyg02RZ

Here is an interesting article on how much money you need to live on to be comfortable. What do you think? Do you agree?

What a Comfortable Retirement Will Cost You in Each State How much do you need to retire comfortably? It's a question in the mind of every American saving for retirement. Unfortunately, there's not a one-size-fits-all answer. There are several rules of thumb...

🎉 Navigating Medicare with Confidence: Your Ultimate Guide to Healthcare After 65! 🏥👵👴

Turning 65 is a milestone worth celebrating, but it also means making crucial decisions about your healthcare coverage. Medicare can be a bit overwhelming, but fear not! As your retirement guide, I'm here to explain it in plain English. Here's everything every retiree needs to know:

🏥 Medicare Part A - Your Hospital Companion
• Covers inpatient hospital stays, hospice care, and more
• No monthly premium if you have paid Medicare taxes for 10 years
• Get Part A automatically at age 65 if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years
• Standard monthly premium of $506 in 2023 if you don't qualify for premium-free Part A

👩‍⚕️ Medicare Part B - Your Medical Go-To
• Covers doctor visits, lab tests, preventive screenings, and more
• Standard monthly premium of $164.90 per month (for most retirees)
• Taken out of your Social Security check, and high earners pay more

📦 Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) - Your Comprehensive Package
• An alternative way to get Medicare coverage through private insurers
• Includes Parts A and B coverage, often Part D (prescription drug coverage)
• Fixed out-of-pocket costs, extra benefits, but restricted provider network
• Monthly premiums average $20-120, and you must continue paying Part B premium

💊 Medicare Part D - Your Prescription Superhero
• Helps pay for retail and mail-order prescriptions, vaccines, and more
• Costs vary (around $30-70 per month) with deductibles, copays, or coinsurance
• Check plan coverage for your medications and explore "Extra Help" subsidies for lower-income retirees

🩺 Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans - Filling the Gaps
• Optional add-on plans from private insurers
• Cover out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, coinsurance, and more
• Monthly premiums range from $100-$300 based on location and coverage

⏳ Enrollment Periods and Coverage Start Dates
• Initial Enrollment Period: 7-month window around your 65th birthday to enroll in Parts A and/or B
• Missing deadlines can result in lifelong penalties, so stay informed!

I know Medicare can be a bit dizzying initially, but take it one step at a time. Get educated, ask questions, consider costs and coverage - you've got this! Feel free to let me know if you have any other questions. Please take a look at the full post at RetiredHappily.com. Your healthcare journey after 65 can be navigated with confidence! 🌟

Fit and Fabulous in Retirement: Discover the Best Ways to Exercise and Embrace the Benefits!

Hey friends! Here are some great tips for staying active in our retirement years. I know some of us (myself included!) aren't quite as spry as we used to be. But keeping our bodies moving is so essential for our health and independence.

🏋️‍♀️🌞The key is choosing activities that work for YOU - maybe it's walking, stretching, hitting the gym, golfing, biking or even just some household chores to keep those muscles and joints limber. 💪

Start slowly and listen to your body. Be patient with yourself and don't compare to what you could do years ago. Stay social too - everything is more fun with friends!

Regular exercise keeps our hearts and bones strong, improves balance to prevent falls, and boosts our mood. And it helps us maintain the active lifestyle we love. For all the specifics on safe, realistic exercise goals and preventing injury, check out RetiredHappily.com's helpful new blog post.✨💛

What's your favorite way to stay active these days? Share any tips to help motivate and inspire our community!

Over 60? Do These 7 Poses Daily To Boost Mobility and Flexibility As we age, maintaining mobility and flexibility becomes increasingly important to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. Yoga, a practice that has been around for thousands of years, offers a gentle …

You can also follow on Instagram to see more.

Matt Calvage

✨Welcome to Retired Happily ✨- Let's Thrive in Retirement Together!

Hello and welcome to Retired Happily! I am excited to have you join us on this journey towards thriving in retirement.

Retirement can be a daunting and uncertain time, but it doesn't have to be. Our community was created to provide a sense of belonging 🫶, support, and resources to help you navigate this new phase of life with confidence and happiness.

Whether you're struggling with finding new hobbies and interests, dealing with financial concerns, feeling socially isolated, or just looking for a place to connect with like-minded individuals, Retired Happily is the perfect place for you.

Through our online community, you'll have the opportunity to join us and begin building a new tribe to share in the journey called Retirement. We are offering a safe space to share your personal challenges and struggles with others who can relate.

We are committed to helping you enjoy retirement to the fullest and making meaningful connections with others along the way. So, join us and let's thrive in retirement together!

Visit 🎟️ RetiredHappily.com and sign up ▶️ to be a member and RetiredHappily.na on instagram 🎉.

How many of you are riding for fun and health? Let me know!

Seniors Not Acting Their Age: Cruising the Eastern Trails Cycling is one of my favorite activities and a primary source of aerobic exercise. The older I get the more I enjoy it. A runner for almost 40 years, a knee replacement compelled me to quit. The knee guy said, “If you keep running, you’ll be back for another one.” A certified sissy, I’m not ...