From Public Service to Publishing: Karen Kristjanson’s Retirement Journey

Main character of our exclusive story, Karen Kristjanson, is a former worker from Canada Border Services Agency whose plans for retirement were road bumped by health concerns. After retiring at the age of 72, Kristjanson, native of South Surrey, British Columbia, intended to devote herself to consulting and personal interests. Unexpectedly, a serious spinal issue delayed her transition, making her retirement journey a formidable one.

Health Challenges and Their Impact

As Kristjanson transitioned towards a leisurely life, her plans were abruptly halted by severe spinal complications. Though not part of her initial retirement plan, this setback necessitated surgical intervention. It was a trying time, demanding not only physical resilience, but an immense amount of mental strength as well. However, in the wake of her surgery, she was able to recuperate and gradually reenter her planned retirement life.

A New Career as a Writer

In her journey of retirement, Kristjanson discovered an undying passion for writing. This interest transformed into a major achievement as she authored and published her book titled ‘Co-Parenting from the Inside Out: Voices of Moms and Dads’ in 2017. Moreover, her love for music emerged as a secondary interest; she started engaging in choir singing and violin lessons, fulfilling some of her long-held hobbies.

Retirement and the Gender Wealth Gap

Our sources have shed light on an ongoing economic disparity that exists within retirement. Drawing upon a study conducted by HEC Montréal, it has been observed that single men tend to possess about 16% more wealth compared to their single female counterparts. This stark difference underscores an urgent need to address the reality of gender wealth inequality.

Retirement Planning Anecdotes and the Quest for Longevity

Matilda: Living Retirement Questions

Conveying the concerns of many on the verge of retirement is Matilda, a 50-year-old autonomous physician deliberating her path to retirement. While her situation is different, the worries she voices are universal, providing useful insight into the thought process that precedes retirement planning.

Inspiration from a Centenarian: Ramiro Guadamuz Chavarria

Another exceptional anecdote comes from Costa Rica. Ramiro Guadamuz Chavarria, a 102-year-old centenarian is living proof of an active and fulfilling life; his tale underscores the global intrigue in discovering the secrets to a long, healthy life. His longevity has spurred interest and research into the lifestyles of the world’s oldest living people.