The quality of life in the third age is all-important: health is only one of several factors that contribute to this but most of us may agree that good health is the best asset we can possess.

There is no reason to think that health will change at retirement, yet it is a time to take stock and perhaps make adjustments, which could improve the quality of life ahead. Pleasure in living should increase at retirement and this includes enjoying eating, drinking and doing.

The main risk factors causing ill health are:

· Cigarette smoking

· Alcohol

· Lack of exercise

· Overweight

It is always advisable to see our family doctor if for more than 3 days there is:

· A loss of appetite

· A change in bowel habit

· An unaccustomed tiredness or breathlessness

We should also know when to seek specific advice on:

· Heart and lung problems

· Circulation problems

· Digestive upsets

· Nervous conditions

· Genito-urinary problems

· Skin problems

If we add:

· Keeping an alert mind

· Keeping old friends and making new ones

· Eating enjoyably

· Retaining a sense of humour, and

· Developing a religious or philosophical attitude to life…

THEN OUR HEALTH IN RETIREMENT CAN BE COMPLETE.