It is a fact of life that we are living longer.  The number of posts to Facebook showing people in their 80s, 90s and even over 100  enjoying life to the fullest has increased. 

We see older people running marathons, achieving university degrees and looking years younger than their actual age.  What is their secret?

I believe their secret is that they have never retired from life.  I don't mean that we need to keep working, although some people love their work and happily continue well into their 70s. 

Read more from Sue Loncaric: 

My point is that sometimes people equate retirement with the end of life, when in actual fact, it is a new phase in life to be explored and enjoyed.

What is their secret elixir to a long and happy life?

This new phase I call The Lifestyle Change, which is all about rejuvenation, not retirement.  We have shaken off the day-to-day responsibilities of work, and can enjoy a new and exciting world.  We have more time to spend doing things that we want to do.

Now is the time to start doing things you have always wanted to do, but haven't had the time.

There are so many options for retirees, such as travel, fitness activities, clubs and hobbies, the list goes on.

One of the most important parts of ensuring that your retirement years are an opportunity to rejuvenate yourself is to PLAN YOUR RETIREMENT BEFORE YOU RETIRE.

So many people don't give enough thought to this next phase of their life. It can be very stressful retiring, wondering if you will have enough saved to live comfortably, learning to have a new purpose in life.

So how can you make sure you are rejuvenated when you retire?

Here are 6 Ways to Make Sure You Are Rejuvenated in Retirement

1.  Think about how you want your retirement to be

Seriously think about how you will fill your time when you finish full-time employment.  It can be quite a shock when reality sets in after the initial euphoria of being free from work. 

Hopefully, your retirement years will be long, so you need to plan what you would like to do.

2.  Check your financial status

Will you have enough savings, assets or superannuation to ensure you have a comfortable standard of living?  Make an appointment with a financial planner to get a check-up.

3. Stay active

Exercise regularly to keep your body healthy and fit.  Half an hour of exercise at least 5 times a week will keep you fit and healthy to enjoy a long retirement. 

Engage the services of a personal trainer to provide a program for you.  Include some strength training in your exercise program.

4.  Use your mind

Exercise your mind and challenge yourself.  Start a hobby or study a new language, do crosswords puzzles, sudoko -- anything to keep your brain working.

5.  Make healthy food choices

Ensure that you have a healthy balanced diet and are getting all the vitamins and minerals you need.  Certainly enjoy eating out but try to stick to the 80/20 rule.

6. Keep your friends

Make sure you keep your social life full, regularly catching up with family and friends.  Loneliness in older years may lead to mental decline, so it is important to nurture your friendships.

Don't Retire from Life

What will you do to plan and live a Rejuvenated Retirement?