Retirement Planning Strategies - June 2019

Why Seniors Are Flocking to Home-Sharing Platforms AN OPPORTUNITY FOR EASY MONEY AND SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT

The freedom of retirement certainly comes with its perks, but challenges of post-work living exist as well. Chief among them, for most elderly folks, are fears of social isolation and financial insolvency, as having coworkers and a regular income are not as common in retirement.

But home-sharing can do more than boost your income. By opening a room in your home to travelers, you’ll encounter all kinds of people you might never otherwise meet, prompting dynamic social interactions and meaningful connections. The rating systems on Airbnb and similar platforms almost entirely prevent would-be troublemakers from entering your property, and users report that when a rare negative experience does occur, the company typically has your back. It’s a great way to stay socially engaged while staving off loneliness. Best of all, running a modestly successful Airbnb usually doesn’t take much work. It simply requires you to set up a neat, welcoming space, keep in contact with your guests, and ensure the check-in and check- out processes are as straightforward as possible. In fact, senior hosts seem to have a leg up on their younger counterparts, as elderly hosts earn the most consistently positive ratings across the globe. Airbnb and The Freebird Club won’t make you rich, but they’re relatively low-effort enterprises that come with some massive benefits. If you’re looking for a little busywork, some extra cash, and a little social interaction in your retirement, hosting may be your best bet!

Perhaps this is why so many retirees are flocking to home-sharing

platforms like Airbnb or its seniors-only cousin, The Freebird Club. Airbnb reported last year that the 60-plus age bracket is its fastest- growing demographic worldwide, with the number of senior hosts as much as doubling every year. Home-sharing platforms can be a tremendous boon to a tight retirement budget. It’s an especially attractive option to elderly folks who find themselves rich in assets but struggling with liquid finances. Home-sharing allows them to tap into these resources. According to Priceonomics, U.S. Airbnb hosts bring in a monthly average of $924.

Train Your

BRAIN!

Zucchini Salad With Toasted Hazelnuts

Inspired by Food & Wine magazine

INGREDIENTS

• 3 small zucchini (3/4 lb.) • 1/2 tsp lemon zest, grated • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • Salt and pepper, to taste • 1/4 cup toasted hazelnuts, coarsely chopped • Mint leaves, for garnish • Parmesan cheese, preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

1. Using a mandolin or very sharp knife, slice zucchini lengthwise into extremely thin, wide ribbons. 2. Arrange zucchini ribbons on a plate, sprinkle with lemon zest, and drizzle with juice. 3. Drizzle oil over zucchini, season with salt and pepper, and toss. 4. Scatter hazelnuts over the top, garnish with mint and cheese, and serve.

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