Retirement is about more than money. This guide gathers practical tips for staying safe, healthy, connected and organized, plus free services that many people never hear about.

Key points

  • Scammers often pretend to be from the government, a bank, tech support or a family member. Hang up and call back on a number you know is real.
  • Medicare Part B covers a yearly "Wellness" visit, generally at no cost to you if your provider accepts Medicare.
  • The free Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116) connects you to local help with meals, transportation, caregiving and more.
  • Make sure someone you trust can find your important documents and accounts if they ever need to.

Protect your money from scams

Most scams follow the same pattern: a surprise contact, a sense of urgency, and an unusual way to pay, such as gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency or cash pick-up. Watch for these common ones:

  • Government impostors: a caller says your Social Security number is "suspended" or you owe money. Government agencies don't threaten arrest or ask for gift cards.
  • "Grandparent" scams: someone says a grandchild is in trouble and needs money fast, and asks you to keep it secret.
  • Tech support pop-ups: a warning on your computer says it is infected and tells you to call a number. Real companies don't do this. Close the browser, and never give a stranger remote access to your computer.
  • Romance and investment scams: a new online friend eventually asks for money or offers a "can't-lose" investment.

A simple family rule: nobody sends money because of an unexpected call, text or email without first calling a family member on a number they already know. If you think you've been targeted, report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).

Stay healthy

  • Use your yearly Wellness visit. If you have Medicare Part B, this visit to plan your preventive care is generally covered at no cost when your provider accepts Medicare.
  • Keep up with recommended screenings and vaccines. Ask your doctor which ones fit your age and health.
  • Check your hearing and vision. Untreated hearing loss can make it harder to stay social. Original Medicare doesn't usually cover hearing aids or glasses, so ask about other coverage or discount programs.
  • Prevent falls. Good lighting, grab bars, removing loose rugs, and exercises for strength and balance all help. The CDC has free checklists.
  • Keep a current list of your medicines and bring it to every appointment.

Stay active and connected

Staying involved with other people is good for both mood and health. Some ideas:

  • Volunteer. AmeriCorps Seniors connects people 55 and older with local volunteer roles, and some roles include a small stipend.
  • Local senior or community centers often offer low-cost classes, exercise groups, trips and meals.
  • Keep learning. Many public colleges offer free or reduced tuition for older adults. Ask the admissions office.
  • Part-time or seasonal work can add income and structure. If you claim Social Security before full retirement age, read about the earnings limit first.

Your home

  • Aging in place: small changes such as railings, a walk-in shower or a bedroom on the main floor can let you stay in your home longer.
  • Downsizing: a smaller home can lower costs and upkeep, but count moving costs, fees and taxes before deciding.
  • Property tax relief: many states and counties offer exemptions or freezes for older homeowners. Ask your county assessor's office.

Get your paperwork in order

  • A will, and a trust if it fits your situation
  • A financial power of attorney, so someone you trust can pay bills if you can't
  • A health care directive and a health care proxy
  • Up-to-date beneficiaries on retirement accounts and insurance
  • A list of accounts, insurance policies and important contacts, kept somewhere a trusted person can find it
  • A plan for your online accounts (email, photos, social media)

Free help that many people don't know about

  • Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov. Connects you to your local Area Agency on Aging for meals, rides, caregiver support and more.
  • BenefitsCheckUp: a free tool from the National Council on Aging at benefitscheckup.org that shows programs you may qualify for, such as help with food, utilities and medicine.
  • SHIP: free Medicare counseling in every state at shiphelp.org.

Sources

Educational information only. This guide is not financial, legal, tax or medical advice. GrandsGaro is a private website and is not affiliated with the Social Security Administration, Medicare, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the IRS or any government agency. For decisions about your own benefits, check the official sources linked on this page.