MENTAL SHARPNESS IN RETIREMENT
Q: I was starting to have memory lapses and trouble concentrating before retirement. But since I retired, I actually feel like I’m sharper mentally. Is that possible?
A: While retirement, the sudden loss of work demands, deadlines, and other responsibilities are sometimes associated with unwelcome changes in brain function, it sounds like you have found the opposite to be true. Some of the “sharpness” you are sensing may be the result of lowered stress levels resulting from retirement. Work stress can be a significant factor for problems affecting memory, processing speed, and concentration. When work demands pile up, your brain often allocates resources to the work challenges, taking energy away from other brain functions. Of course, cognitive stimulation is still important in retirement. The brain always benefits when it is challenged, though in retirement you may be able to pick and choose how you exercise your mind. Regular exercise is also critical. Formany busy working people, setting aside time to exercise is not always a priority. But if you are enjoying an active retirement, that boost in physical activity may also help explain your renewed sense of mental sharpness.
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