The Changing Reality of Retirement
Washington Post (12/04/00) p.C4; Haas, Jane Glenn
The modern conception of "retirement" differs
drastically from the expectations of the previous generation of
seniors. The cozy, two-bedroom downsized house, for example, has
become a thing of the past. Today's married couples say they
would rather have space away from each other in a large home--one
possibly even bigger than their current residence, according to
Annie Gerard, vice president of National Survey Systems. Also
fading into obscurity is the guest bedroom that doubles as a
"sewing room." Real estate agent Danielle Snow says that sewing
rooms have morphed into computer rooms. These spaces often must
be large enough to accommodate two desks and two computers; or
the couple may need to have separate computer rooms altogether.
Golfclubs in the garage may be a common site, but an active
lifestyle no longer defines retirement. Staying active is an
accepted part of life at any age. And while golfing may still be
popular, the formulaic golf-course retirement development is no
longer the automatic choice for senior living. As the reality of
retirement changes, it may lead one to wonder if "retiring"
actually requires more work.