This Is Your Brain With Dr. Phil Stieg Is Retirement Bad For You?
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Jan 9, 2026 Dr. Ross Andel, a gerontologist focused on cognitive aging, discusses the often-overlooked mental effects of retirement. He reveals the concept of 'mental retirement' and its link to cognitive decline. Andel emphasizes the importance of maintaining routine and purpose post-retirement. Listeners learn strategies to enhance memory, such as social engagement and hobbies, and the significance of finding fulfilling activities to combat loneliness and depression. Lastly, he introduces the idea of ‘unretirement’ and the need for meaningful engagement as we age.
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Mental Retirement Precedes Real Decline
- Retirement often triggers
Aging Slows Processing; Disease Accelerates Loss
- Age-related cognitive decline mirrors muscular decline with slower processing and lost connections.
- Accelerated decline involves neurodegeneration and can progress to mild cognitive impairment.
Replace Structure, Don't Remove It
- Replace lost work structure with regular, meaningful activities to keep cognitive engagement.
- Maintain routines and responsibilities so the brain doesn't
