Retirement should feel like a new beginning – a chance to live life your way. But let’s be real – making the shift from full-time work to full-time freedom doesn’t always happen overnight. Whether you’re saying goodbye to a long career or figuring out how to manage a new income, it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty. With the right approach, though, you can make retirement one of the most rewarding chapters yet.   The emotional side of retirement Stepping away from the working world can feel like losing part of your identity – and that can take a toll. Research shows up to 15 percent of older Aussies experience depression, with anxiety numbers not far behind. This is what’s often called ‘adjusting to retirement’ depression. You might feel lonely, unmotivated or like you’re searching for purpose – especially if work gave you a strong routine and regular social contact. The Australian Psychological Society reckons building resilience and staying socially connected can make...

Boost strength, energy, and confidence – no gym required When it comes to building strength, it’s not about lifting heavy weights or pushing through discomfort. It’s about developing a body that supports your day-to-day activities and builds confidence in your ability to move well and stay independent. Health and Lifestyle Coordinator Josh Kristenson says the best part is how accessible it is - you don’t need fancy equipment or a gym membership to begin. Start with your own body weight Everyday movements like standing up from a chair without using your hands, doing heel raises at the kitchen bench, or slowly squatting while tending to the garden can engage your legs, hips, and core muscles. These small actions, done regularly, lay a strong foundation. Turn household items into tools Grab a couple of canned goods, filled water bottles, or a backpack with books and try some gentle strength movements like bicep curls, overhead presses, or rowing actions. Aim for 8 to 12 reps at a time,...

There’s something truly special about friendships later in life. They’re more than social catch-ups – they're good for our health, happiness, and overall wellbeing. And science backs it up. A University of Michigan study found 90 percent of people over 50 have at least one close friend – many have several. These aren’t just friends for the fun times either. They’re the ones who check in when you’re not feeling great, lend a hand when life gets tricky, and make the good days even better. Fewer friends, stronger bonds As we get older, most of us naturally shift from big social circles to a few close connections. It’s not about having fewer friends – it's about having the right ones. Psychologist Katherine Fiori calls this ‘social refining’. It’s when we focus on the people who really matter – the ones who show up, make us laugh, and have our back. Research shows that strong, supportive relationships like these can even help protect us from...

There’s nothing quite like a plate of homemade gnocchi – soft, golden bites that are full of comfort and flavour. This saffron potato gnocchi recipe is a simple way to turn everyday ingredients into something truly special, whether you're cooking for yourself or sharing with friends. Chef Matt Conquest recommends this dish as a go-to for cooler evenings or when you feel like something warm and hearty. “The saffron brings a gentle lift to the gnocchi without overpowering it,” says Matt. “It’s a great base for just about any sauce – from burnt butter and basil to a creamy blue cheese or a rich tomato.” With a bit of patience and a light touch, you’ll have a dish that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat – no fancy tools required. Saffron potato gnocchi Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 750g starchy potato, sebago, russet or Idaho 150g plain flour 1 egg, whole 150g parmesan, finely grated 1 tsp sea salt ½ tsp saffronTreats can be stored in an air-tight container and in...

We squirrel money away for all sorts of things – holidays, home renos, a new set of wheels – so why not for retirement too? With a bit of planning (and a few smart moves), you can set yourself up for a future that’s not just secure, but seriously enjoyable.   1. Start with a plan Getting financially retirement-ready begins with knowing where you’re at now. Take a fresh look at your budget and assess whether your current path will get you to the lifestyle you want. A clear savings plan will help you work out how much you need to set aside each month, based on your stage of life and financial goals. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach – your plan should be tailored to you.   2. Make savings automatic Once you know how much you want to save, make it easy on yourself by automating your savings. One of the best ways to do this is through salary sacrificing – contributing part of...

Thinking of trading big for better? You’re not alone. For a growing number of Aussies over 50, downsizing isn’t just about shedding square metres — it’s about making space for more of what matters. Less stuff, more freedom. Less upkeep, more time for the good things. But as exciting as it is, a move like this still comes with its fair share of gotchas. Whether you’re leaving the family home or heading for a sea or treechange, here are some common downsizing mistakes to dodge — so you can start your next chapter with confidence. Common traps when downsizing (and how to avoid them) Downsizing isn’t about giving up — it’s about gearing up for something better. So, before you start packing boxes, take a moment to think about what your future lifestyle could really look like. 1. Not thinking long-term A smaller house doesn’t mean smaller dreams. Ask yourself: will you want space for visiting grandkids? A veggie patch or a hobby room? Maybe you’re ready...

After years of juggling work, family, and everything in between, the thought of stepping into retirement should feel exciting — not overwhelming. But let’s face it: for many of us, the idea of calling it quits overnight doesn’t quite fit. That’s where a transition to retirement (TTR) strategy can make all the difference. With a little forward planning, a TTR approach gives you more flexibility and financial freedom as you shift into the next stage of life — your way. What is a transition to retirement strategy? If you’re aged 60 or over and still working, you might be able to access part of your super without fully retiring. A TTR strategy allows you to move some of your super into a TTR pension account. This gives you the option to: Ease back your working hours and top up your income using regular pension payments, or Keep working full-time, increase your salary-sacrificed contributions, and draw a tax-effective income from your super to maintain your take-home pay. You can...

As the cooler months start to roll in, there’s something special about a warm, savoury dish that brings people together. This wild mushroom and parmesan sformato is rich, earthy, and wonderfully comforting – the kind of meal that feels right at home on a cosy autumn afternoon. Chef Matt Conquest says: “It’s easy to make, perfect for sharing, and ideal as a starter or light meal. “Served with crusty sourdough or fresh greens, it’s full of flavour and simplicity. And the best part? You can swap out the mushrooms for your favourite seasonal vegetable – like cauliflower or baby spinach – to suit your tastes.” Warm, satisfying, and made for good company – it's what Living Gems life is all about. Wild Mushroom and Parmesan Sformato (Italian set cream) Makes 8 x 120 ml moulds INGREDIENTS 10 g dried wild mushrooms, soak in water until soft 10 g dried porcini mushrooms, soak in water until soft 100 g field mushrooms, sliced 100 g button mushrooms 25 ml extra virgin olive oil Truffle...

Did you know 15 May is International Day of Families? Fitness expert Josh Kristenson reckons it’s the perfect excuse to spend time with your favourite people, share a laugh, and sneak in a bit of movement while you’re at it. “Family comes in all shapes and sizes — grandkids, adult kids, chosen family, neighbours who feel like kin,” he says. “Whoever you’ve got in your corner, moving your body together is one of the easiest ways to feel good, stay connected and keep the blood pumping. “No gym gear or complicated routines needed!” Take a walk, make a memory Walking might be simple, but it’s seriously underrated, says Josh. “It’s easy, free, and better with company,” he says. “Head out for a stroll with a grandchild and turn it into a game — count how many kookaburras you can spot, race to the next letterbox, or chat about your favourite old-school snacks. “If your loved ones live further away, tee up a ‘walk and talk’ call. You...

Retirement is an exciting new chapter, but a little planning goes a long way to ensure you make the most of it. From sorting out your finances and health to finding new hobbies and staying open to change, these simple steps will help you create a rewarding and enjoyable retirement. 1. Take control of your finances Your money works differently in retirement, so it’s important to review your budget. Even if budgeting isn’t your thing, now’s the time to look at your income and expenses. A financial advisor can help you maximise your superannuation, investments, pensions, and government benefits. Check your super and investments Understanding where you stand financially is key. You might want to look at diversifying your investments or turning your super into an annuity or an account-based pension. Getting expert advice ensures you make smart choices. Plan for your retirement lifestyle Spending habits change in retirement. Research shows retirees aged 75 spend significantly less than they did at 60, with higher-income retirees cutting...