Q: My husband and I are planning to retire at the end of this year. Both of us have had busy successful financial careers and haven't had time to think deeply about retirement.

Based on your experience, what are the top priorities for beginning retired life?

A: The biggest mistake you can make before giving up your paychecks is forgetting to set your goals. Now is the time to work out the details.

What are your new priorities going to be? Try to be specific.

Where do you want to live? Near family, a retirement community or overseas?

What are your assets and savings? Would you consider part-time employment? It can help you stay involved with others and finance your enjoyment of hobbies.

Compared with older generations, the lifespan of those in younger generations has been extended by better medical care and awareness about self-care. Many individuals are misjudging the costs associated with living longer. Costs, particularly medical expenses, don't disappear.

The longer you work, the larger your Social Security check will be. I have known couples who choose different timetables to schedule their checks.

As we age, we find our futures determined by inflation, health, wealth and other inevitable changes. It's important to stay aware and anticipate what your options will be in the future. This knowledge should inform your actions.

No matter what happens, happiness is a choice. Strive for a positive attitude, and laugh at life's surprises. — Doug

POST-VISIT BLUES

Q: I just had a wonderful Easter holiday at my son's house. I thoroughly enjoyed my daughter-in-law's excellent cooking and loved spending time with my grandchildren.

Spending this holiday together opened my eyes about how I am lonely living by myself. They live about an hour away, but I want to see them more.

What should I do?

A: Be proactive!

You're lucky to have a caring family, but they can't read your mind. The most reliable way to make sure they know you want to spend more time together is simple: You have to tell them yourself.

If they are especially busy, make it easy to arrange visits. Offer to host them at your home occasionally. This will eliminate their stress about cooking, cleaning the house and possibly picking you up from your home. It's best to share the responsibility.

A great option is to offer to watch their children for them, so you get to spend time with your grandchildren and they can enjoy some alone time.

Because you live apart, you're not likely to see them every day. Loneliness is a serious problem for seniors, which can turn into depression over time. Address your loneliness in other ways.

Seek out friendships in your community, and join new activities. Above all, keep a positive attitude and be willing to step outside your comfort zone. People will go out of their way to spend time with you when they enjoy your company. — Emma, Doug's granddaughter

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California retirement community. Contact him at [email protected]. Emma, Doug's granddaughter, helps write this column. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.