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- Robert Laura, 22 Sep 2025
Retirement Orientation: Don’t Overlook Your Vision for the Future
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Have you ever started something new and thought, “I wish someone would have warned me about that?” For most of life’s milestones, there’s some kind of orientation or class to help you prepare; whether it’s for new parents, newlyweds, or new hires.
With open enrollment happening this time of year, you might already be taking stock of what you need for what’s next. But when it comes to retirement, one of life’s biggest transitions, most people are left to figure it out on their own.
This then begs the question: Why isn’t there some sort of “Retirement Orientation” for people leaving the workplace? Retirement is one of life’s most highly anticipated and significant milestones, but we don’t treat it like other major transitions. Instead, we seem to just push people right out the door and leave them to figure it out on their own.
It’s easy to joke about the idea of “Retirement Orientation” classes — like “Should I Follow My Grandkids on Social Media?” “Intro to Bird Feeders,” or “Advanced Pickleball.” But the reality is, entering retirement without time-tested advice or strategies that go beyond the traditional dollars and cents can leave you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and out of sorts.
While finances are often front and center, the truth is that your overall well-being in retirement depends on a lot more — including your health, your connections, and your ability to keep enjoying the things you love. Vision is a big part of that picture, though it’s easy to overlook until there’s a problem. Seeing your best helps you stay independent, safe, and connected in this new chapter.
The good news is you can create your own “Retirement Orientation.” Here are three key themes to guide you:
1) Pause to Find Your Cause
2) Explore Instead of Ignore
3) See to Your Health
Many people go on autopilot leading up to retirement. Their days are full, demands are high, and they tend to go through the motions each day: checking boxes, getting things done, and moving from one task to the next. But in the process, people can lose little pieces of who they are and what’s important to them.
That’s why it’s critical to take some time once in a while to close your eyes and really reflect on your personal values and beliefs. This intentional reflection helps you reconnect with what’s most important, laying the foundation for personal growth, a sense of purpose, and a more resilient response to whatever life throws your way during retirement.
As you envision this next chapter, consider how your eyesight will shape your experiences and help you achieve your goals. Keeping your vision healthy is an essential part of making your retirement vision a reality. With a VSP® Individual Vision Plan, you can help protect your eyesight and keep your retirement goals in focus.
A common misconception among new and soon-to-be retirees is this idea that they’ll gain more than they lose when they retire. Yes, you gain more time and freedom, but there are things you’ll likely lose, too: your sense of identity, daily routine, social connection, and mental stimulation, to name a few.
And let’s not forget the practical benefits you may lose when you leave the workforce and switch to Medicare, like employer-sponsored vision, health, and dental insurance. In fact, many retirees are surprised to discover that Medicare coverage for vision is often limited. * Original Medicare typically doesn’t cover routine eye exams, glasses, or contact lenses, which means you could be left without the vision care you’ve relied on for years.
This is where planning ahead can really pay off. Instead of learning all this the hard way, take time to explore what you’ll need in retirement:
Who are you when you aren’t working?
How do you want to make an impact during this next chapter?
And which benefits do you need to replace from your employer to protect your quality of life?
Vision care is one area you don’t want to overlook. The good news is, VSP Individual Vision Plans are affordable and customizable, making it easy to stay covered and fill the gaps that Medicare may not address. Taking the time to plan for your vision needs now can help you stay healthy, independent, and ready to make the most of your retirement years.
When we picture retirement, we often imagine long walks on the beach, playing with grandkids, or traveling to new and exciting places: All of which depend on having a healthy and active body, and that kind of wellness doesn’t simply appear once you retire. Rejuvenation and vitality are essential for a successful transition from work life to home life.
If you haven’t already, now is the time to start building healthy habits. Establish an exercise routine, follow a balanced nutrition plan, and make time to care for your mind and spirit. Good health in retirement means looking after every part of yourself, including your vision.
Seeing your best supports your independence, keeps you connected to the people and activities you love, and lets you fully enjoy every moment of this new chapter. Routine eye exams and proper vision care should be just as much a part of your retirement wellness plan as staying active and eating well. If you’re looking for an easy way to make sure your vision is covered, VSP Individual Vision Plans start at just $13/mo. and offer flexible options that can fit your needs and help you maintain the healthy lifestyle you want in retirement.
While there may not be an official “Retirement Orientation,” taking the time to plan ahead can set you up for a more fulfilling and enjoyable next chapter. By pausing to reflect on your values, exploring what you’ll need to thrive, and making your health — especially your vision — a priority, you’ll be in a better position to embrace all the opportunities retirement has to offer.
With a little planning and the right support, like a VSP Individual Vision Plan to help fill the gaps in Medicare coverage, you can look forward to retirement with clarity and confidence. And since open enrollment is a time when many people are reviewing their benefits, it’s a great opportunity to make sure you have the coverage and support you need for the years ahead.
*Check your Medicare Plan to see if your vision care needs are covered and/or if a VSP Individual Vision Plan is right for you. VSP Vision Care does not coordinate benefits with Medicare.
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Healthy vision association discounts
Some plans can only be accessed through membership in the Healthy Vision Association (HVA), which helps its members see well and stay healthy.
For $1.50/mo, your membership will give you access to exclusive discount programs* on everyday goods and services including:
Plus, your membership supports vision-related charities too.
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*All rebates and special offers are subject to change