Retire Early Lifestyle
Retirement; like your parents, but way cooler

In 1991 Billy and Akaisha Kaderli retired at the age of 38. Now, into their 4th decade of this financially independent lifestyle, they invite you to take advantage of their wisdom and experience.

How Military Veterans Can Enjoy Their Time in Retirement

Anastasia Engle

Retirement marks a significant milestone in the lives of military veterans. After years of dedicated service, it's time to reap the rewards and embark on a new chapter filled with well-deserved relaxation and enjoyment. As veterans transition into civilian life, they may wonder how to make the most of their retirement years. And for those who retire due to disability, they may have even more of a challenge in figuring out the next steps in life. From VA loans for homes, to monthly compensation, to giving back, there are plenty of ways for veterans to savor their retirement, fostering personal growth, fulfillment, and overall well-being.

Embrace the Pursuit of Hobbies and Interests

Retirement offers an abundance of time to delve into hobbies and interests that may have been temporarily set aside during active duty. Whether it's painting, gardening, fishing, or playing a musical instrument, veterans can immerse themselves in activities that bring them joy and provide a sense of fulfillment. Exploring new interests can also help foster connections, especially for those with a disability. It can feel isolating when you have a long-term injury from your military service and finding new hobbies and interests can help.

Travel and Explore New Horizons

Having served in different corners of the world, many veterans have developed a sense of adventure and a curiosity about different cultures. Retirement presents the perfect opportunity to fulfill those desires. From road trips across the country to embarking on international adventures, travel can broaden horizons, create lasting memories, and provide a fresh perspective on life. Veterans can leverage their unique experiences to create itineraries that cater to their interests and ability level, making their retirement years a remarkable journey of exploration.

Explore Disability Benefits

Retirees from military service, even those with a military disability, can take advantage of a range of benefits and resources that all veterans should make full use of. These benefits not only provide financial security but also offer various opportunities for veterans to enhance their retirement experience. The compensation that veterans receive depends on various factors. These can include rank, number of years in service, and even how the disability happened. Those who became disabled due to an injury that happened during deployment may be able to receive additional benefits. You can use online tools to get an estimate of potential monthly compensation when you’ve been disabled in the military. This can include a monthly stipend, healthcare benefits, and more. Plus, you may still be eligible for GI Bill monies for further education and training, VA loans, and other military discounts.

Give Back to the Community

Retirement or a disability does not imply a complete withdrawal from contributing to society. Veterans possess valuable skills, discipline, and leadership qualities that can benefit their local communities. Engaging in volunteer work or joining organizations dedicated to supporting fellow veterans can provide a renewed sense of purpose and an avenue for giving back. By leveraging their experiences and expertise, veterans can make a positive impact, mentor younger generations, and continue to serve in meaningful ways.

Maintain Physical Fitness and Wellness

Maintaining physical fitness and overall wellness is crucial for veterans in retirement. Regular exercise not only contributes to physical well-being but also boosts mental and emotional health. Veterans can explore various avenues, such as joining local fitness clubs, swimming, or engaging in outdoor activities like hiking or biking. Additionally, focusing on nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices can significantly enhance vitality and quality of life during retirement.

Connect with Support Networks

Retirement can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, especially if you’ve been disabled and when transitioning from a tightly-knit military community. To combat this, veterans should actively seek out support networks tailored to their needs. Whether through veterans' organizations, online forums, or social clubs, connecting with fellow veterans can help foster a sense of belonging, provide a platform for sharing experiences, and offer emotional support. Such networks can become an invaluable resource for veterans as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of retirement.

Pursue Higher Education

Leaving the military can be just the start of a new career path. Retirement opens doors to new educational pursuits. Many veterans choose to continue their education, either by pursuing a degree or enrolling in specialized courses. Universities and colleges often provide resources specifically designed for veterans, including financial aid programs and career counseling services. By engaging in lifelong learning, veterans can expand their knowledge, acquire new skills, and explore areas of personal interest, leading to personal growth and new opportunities. 

Retire Early Lifestyle appeals to a different kind of person – the person who prizes their independence, values their time, and who doesn’t want to mindlessly follow the crowd.

HOME   Book Store

Retire Early Lifestyle Blog      About Billy & Akaisha Kaderli      Press     Contact     20 Questions     Preferred Links    

Retirement     Country Info     Retiree Interviews      Commentary     REL Videos