Don’t Fail Retirement: Plan for Purpose, Health & Social Connections

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 

Guest: Caroline Francis, EdS Director of UK Alumni Career Services

Season 8, Episode 29

Talking FACS host Mindy McCulley sits down with Caroline Francis, director of the University of Kentucky Alumni Career Services Program, to discuss how to avoid failing at retirement and how retirement is being redefined for today's generations.

They explore topics beyond finances, including:

• loss of identity,
• shrinking social networks,
• declining health, and
• lack of purpose.

Sharing practical strategies that lead to successful retirement years, like starting a bucket list or curious journal, pursuing encore careers or volunteer roles, taking advantage of programs such as Donovan Scholars or the OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute) program and prioritizing lifelong learning and health.

Key takeaways include starting to plan 3–5 years ahead, building social connections and purpose, improving health before retirement, and finding role models to emulate for a successful transition.

For more information visit the UK Alumni Association:

Website

Facebook

For more information about programs mentioned during this episode:

OLLI Program

If you are over 65, ask about the Donavan Scholars Program at ANY state supported college or university in Kentucky for tuition waiver.

Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.

Kentucky Extension Offices

UK FCS Extension

          Website

          Facebook

          Instagram

          FCS Learning Channel