The Effect of Retirement on Lifestyle, Well-being and Ability to Cope in Indian Army

Abstract

There may be many challenges that retirees experience when they leave the workplace. Many people are unable to foresee this critical aspect of their future. Therefore, a study of the effect of retirement on army officers lifestyle, well-being and ability to cope, was undertaken keeping in mind that even after laying down the uniform, an army officer continues to have that ingrained code of conduct and ethical values that he has served and practised in his professional and personal life. Retirees experience adversity in emotional and their wellbeing. One must study the disparity that is felt when an officer retires and settles in an environment which may be different from his earlier one. This will help in identifying the coping ability, their well-being and lifestyle factors associated with retirement so that it promotes a peaceful and satisfying post retired life. It was found through qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews that retirement might coincide with many important life changes and adopting a new lifestyle. Lifestyle changes may require unforeseen adaptation and adjustments that result in a sense of disenchantment affecting their well-being.

Keywords: Retirement, Army, Lifestyle, Coping, Wellbeing

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