Age happens naturally, but that doesn’t mean we enjoy the process. Most people don’t want to look older than they feel. If you count yourself among them, you can do a few things to slow down the process. No. 1: Stop Eating Sugar It’s time to finally master that sweet tooth — sugar ages you. It reacts to protein and causes “glycation,” which leads skin to wrinkle and cells to harden. Sugar also hardens collagen, stiffening skin. The more you consume, the more likely you are to suffer these adverse effects. No. 2: Quit Drinking Alcohol While most Americans drink alcohol, it can accelerate aging significantly. The substance damages telomeres, the part of a cell associated with aging. If telomeres get too short, they can’t divide, so they start dying. This happens naturally over time, but alcohol consumption hastens the process. No. 3: Lather on the Sunscreen The sun gives us life, but it also gives us UV rays. They break down collagen, causing wrinkles while increasing the risk of skin cancer. Even if you’re just running errands, put on sunscreen. Light gets in through windshields and windows. 3 PROVEN WAYS TO SLOW DOWN THE CLOCK
How aging progresses depends on lifestyle choices. While it’s inevitable, making the right changes can support a healthier body in the transition. So, if you avoid sweets, alcohol, and UV rays, you’re doing a great job protecting your body from the ravages of time.
READY, SET, RETIRE The Must-Do List for Federal Employees 5 Years Out
• If you’re divorced, consider the implications. Do you have a former spouse with rights to a portion of your retirement, survivor benefits, or Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) funds? If so, submit a copy of the court order acceptable for processing (COAP) created from your divorce decree before submitting your retirement application. • If you are enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program, verify that you are eligible to continue your coverage as a retiree by having been enrolled for five years before retirement.
by having been enrolled for the five years prior to retirement. This is also an excellent time to ensure you have the right amount of FEGLI coverage for your situation (you may be over-insured and paying too much for your coverage). • If you are 50 or older, you are eligible to make catch-up contributions to the TSP. You must contribute the full amount to the annual base contribution limit to participate in catch-up contributions. Retirement is a wonderful new adventure, and by following our checklist, you will be better prepared to receive the most benefits possible. If you have any questions about maximizing your retirement benefits, contact us today!
As federal employees approach the final stretch of their careers, the countdown to retirement begins! There are specific steps you should take five years before you reach this exciting milestone in life. We’ve compiled a handy checklist of what you should do to prepare for life after work. • If you have unpaid deposits or redeposits, review the topic of paying for service, including military service. • Review your survivor benefit options, including the eligibility requirements, their cost, and the necessity for your spouse’s consent if you want to provide less than full benefits.
• If you are enrolled in the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance
(FEGLI), verify that you are eligible to continue your coverage as a retiree
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