Retirement Archives - Ventana Winds Retirement Community

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Written by webtechs

14 April 2023

Retirement Bucket List

If you’re dreaming of retirement, it might be a good time to start jotting down some bucket list ideas. Think about everything you want to do when it comes to goals, travel and exploration. Use our examples below to begin building out your ultimate bucket list!

Retirement Bucket List Ideas

Lots of retirees choose to make a bucket list as they head into their golden years. Now is the time to think about what you want to accomplish over the course of your remaining years. Of course, there is no right or wrong way to create a bucket list, these are simply some common items that retirees write down.

Travel Bucket List

❒ Visit all seven wonders of the world.

❒ Take a long train or road trip.

❒ Go on an Alaskan cruise.

❒ Check out the northern lights.

❒ Visit your ancestors’ country.

❒ Take a European cruise.

❒ Visit the strip in Las Vegas.

❒ Go to the Grand Canyon.

❒ Take a safari in Africa.

❒ Visit every national park.

❒ Visit Machu Pichu.

❒ Take a ride on the London Eye.

❒ See the cherry blossoms in Japan.

❒ Go island hopping in Greece.

❒ See Niagara Falls.

❒ Revisit the location of your honeymoon.

❒ Travel to every state in the country.

Hobby Bucket List

❒ Golf on a regular basis.

❒ Learn a new language.

❒ Take dancing lessons.

❒ Take cooking classes.

❒ Start doing yoga or Tai Chi.

❒ Plant your own vegetable garden.

❒ Start playing pickle ball.

❒ Join a badminton league.

❒ Learn to play a musical instrument.

❒ Start some new family traditions.

❒ Choose a new creative passion.

❒ Get your pilots license.

❒ Buy an RV.

❒ Take up bird watching.

Fun Bucket List Ideas

❒ Learn to read fortunes.

❒ Try to set a goofy Guinness World Record.

❒ Go axe throwing.

❒ Travel to the Bermuda Triangle.

❒ Play paint ball.

❒ Audition for a reality TV show.

❒ Sing karaoke.

❒ Get on stage for an open mic night.

Bucket List Adventures

❒ Fly in a helicopter.

❒ Run a marathon.

❒ Swim with the dolphins.

❒ Climb a mountain.

❒ Do a polar bear plunge.

❒ Ride a horse on the beach.

❒ Get a tattoo.

❒ Get hypnotized on stage.

❒ Try out white water rafting.

❒ Take an unplanned plane ride.

❒ Ride in a hot air balloon.

Luxury Bucket List Ideas

❒ Fly first class.

❒ Go on a luxury cruise.

❒ Get a penthouse suite in a big city.

❒ Get courtside tickets to an NBA game.

❒ Attend a film premiere.

❒ Stay at a luxurious island resort.

❒ Go to a fashion show.

Bucket List Foods

❒ Try sushi in Japan.

❒ Eat New York City pizza in the big apple.

❒ Explore Thailand’s street markets.

❒ Brew your own beer at home.

❒ Tour a vineyard in the French countryside.

❒ Try tapas in Barcelona.

❒ Cook your catch after fishing.

❒ Stomp grapes to make wine.

❒ Extract honey from a beehive.

❒ Eat the hottest pepper you can find.

Legacy Bucket List Ideas

❒ Write a book.

❒ Make your family tree.

❒ Make a retirement bucket list video.

❒ Update your will(s).

❒ Make scrapbooks of all family photos.

❒ Create a cookbook filled with family recipes.

❒ Renew your wedding vows.

❒ Host a yearly family reunion.

Retirement In Youngtown, Arizona

There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment. The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

Retirement

Regular Post

Written by Brian B

23 January 2023

Best Retirement Cities In Arizona

If you are looking for the best retirement cities in Arizona, we’re here to highlight five of the top places across the valley of the sun!

Best Cities To Retire In Arizona

More and more retirees are flocking to Arizona for the plethora of sunshine, strong economy and scenic views. If you are currently searching for the best areas of the valley to call home, this will be your guide!

Youngtown, AZ

The name Youngtown was, of course, ironically planned. Measuring just over a mile in total area, Youngtown boasts a small population, filled with the best retirement communities in the entire country. From November through April, the weather is nearly perfect, with average temperatures ranging from 76-86 degrees.

Retirement Community In Youngtown: There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment.

The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

Mesa, AZ

Avid golfers will love Mesa, which features more than 200 world-class courses. You are never far from neighboring cities, Scottsdale and Chandler, as well.

Retirement Community In Mesa: Canyon Winds is a Senior Living Services Community located in Mesa, Arizona. This facility offers plenty of choices for senior citizens of varying needs. One can find more than just assisted living at Canyon Winds, as they also offer independent and memory care services.

This resort-style facility is breathtaking, with spacious floor plans and dining areas. A full activity program and fitness center await future residents. Looking to bring a small cat or dog to your new home? Not a problem at all, as every SLS Community is pet friendly!

Sedona, AZ

If you are a retiree who enjoys outdoor activities, you can’t find a better spot than Sedona. Enjoy horseback rides, jeep tours and scenic hikes all throughout the year. The only downside of living in Sedona is the rising real estate costs.

Retirement Community In Sedona: Sedona Winds, located in the heart of the red rocks, offers stunning courtyard views, along with a 24-hour staff for every need. Settle for this community if you wish to enjoy breathtaking views, daily.

General maintenance, weekly laundry and deep cleaning of your apartment, an emergency call system, and a diverse activities program are all included when you choose Sedona Winds.

Peoria, AZ

Peoria’s crime rate is below the national average and the climate is ideal; topping out at 94 degrees in the month of July. Money Magazine recently named Peoria as one of the top 100 places to live.

Retirement Community In Peoria: Offering assisted, independent and memory care services, Desert Winds is a top-notch community in the valley. Desert Winds offers three types of floor plans for assisted living residents. Whether a two-bedroom, two-bath or one-bedroom, one-bath is what you desire, Desert Winds has a plan for you.

Studio apartments are available as well. All of these floor plans can be toured virtually on Desert Winds’ official website. All apartments come fully equipped with individual heat and AC units, a refrigerator, microwave, window treatments and more.

Surprise, AZ

Sports lovers will know how special this place is. Whether you want to hit the links or catch a baseball spring training game, Surprise is the spot for you!

Retirement Community In Surprise: If you’ve lived in Surprise your entire life and want to stay close to friends and family, then Chaparral Winds is the assisted living facility for you! As Chaparral Winds’ website states, this is a community designed to keep a relaxing vibe going throughout the day.

A pool and hot tub combined with a beautiful dining area make this one of the premier communities in all of Arizona. Great shopping, golf courses, restaurants and medical facilities are all located within a few miles, which is a bonus for visiting family members.

Why Retire In Arizona?

Find out why so many retirees are deciding to call Arizona home!

Most Sun In The U.S.

This is not an exaggeration, this is a fact! According to the NOAA, Arizona residents experience more sunny days than anyone in the country. And this includes the sunshine state of Florida! Arizona typically experiences 299 sunny days per year. The rest of the U.S. averages only 205 sunny days each year.

Less Tax Burdens

Arizona offers less tax burdens for residents compared to other states. Allowing residents to keep as much of their income as possible has helped the valley grow exponentially for several decades.

Low Cost Of Living

Arizona boasts an extremely strong economy and a low cost of living, at the same time. This state remains one of the most affordable states to live in across the country, according to BestPlaces. Whether you are looking to move into a small studio apartment or large home, the chances are high you’ll pay less in the valley of the sun. Combining the low cost of living and strong economy/job market, and Arizona is the ideal place for any retiree.

Sporting Options

There’s more than just golf in Arizona, though! Residents also enjoy watching teams in all four major sports, including the Diamondbacks (MLB), Cardinals (NFL), Suns (NBA) and Coyotes (NHL).

Scenery

Arizona offers much more than gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. The valley of the sun is home to some of the best scenic hiking trails in the world. Sedona is home to the famous red rocks, plus mountain ranges, lakes and desert beauty can be seen all over the state.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

10 Retirement Gifts For Men

Each man retiring from a long life of work deserves some recognition. Below are some ideas to get you started in finding that perfect retirement gift for him.

Retirement Gifts For Men

Padded Golf Travel Bag
He doesn’t need worry about safeguarding his golf equipment with this golf travel bag made out of six hundred denier polyester. This bag has five mm padding to help safeguard has golf clubs while heading to the links. Ideal for use in airports, traveling, and for added protection in his car’s trunk. It is tough and long lasting. This travel bag is easy for carrying with NEOPRENE padded, Velcro locking carry handles. For added comfort and adaptability, it comes with a padded shoulder strap for effortless handling. He can even carry it like a duffel bag easily. The ideal gift for him who is simply a lover of golf.
Personalized Whiskey Stones
Let him say arrivederci to watered-down whiskey. Allow the cool feel of stone bring his whiskey to life. Get win-win with a personalized retirement gift that is going to rock his whiskey glass and make every sip virtuous and chilled. These Whiskey Stones are going to be a fixture at the bottom of your whiskey aficionado’s glass.
Personalized Whiskey Decanter Gift Set
His mancave is going to be complete with this special whiskey set. Let him have the luxury of serving IPA’s, cocktails, or even all types of spirits with this Personalized Whiskey Decanter. This gist set comes complete with a bamboo ice bucket, serving tray and ice tongs, and also a decanter, 2 whiskey glasses, and. Make him boastful with the addition of his initials because each piece of the set can be personalized.
Retirement Watch
The watch is going to help him keep the time even better. This retirement watch is not only a beautiful timepiece for him to use in his daily life, but also symbolistic of a good life. The watch not only reminds him of retirement, but also reminds him of his dream and his hope of a good life
Personalized Beer Sample Set
Let him relive the old days together with his favorite beer bros with this perfect gift. This personalized beer sample set comes with 4 pilsner glasses including 1 personalized paddle made from naturally finished wood. get his name laser engraved on it and you are all set for that excellent retirement gift.
Flask Set
Whereas flask gift sets might be on the smaller side of gift ideas for retirement, it’s very clear that he is going get use out of it all the time. Ultimately, a flask is incredibly resourceful. When he is out enjoying his evening, he can have a couple of nips turning the hotdogs, during his time in the shop sanding his hotrod, or even use it for occasions in which a toast is needed!
Retirement Apron
He is going to have plenty of time to spend cooking his favorite dishes. Let this hilarious retirement apron be his right-hand companion in the kitchen. It’s made of 100% polyester complete with black removable twill strapping.
Grill Set
Part of retirement that each man looks forward to is searing steaks, flipping burgers, and turning brats on his grill. Gift him the tools he needs to begin his adventure with a set of custom grill tools! He is going to be astounded at how light-weight and easy these unique tools are to use that he is going to want to make tasty food for every meal. Now, anytime he has an inclination to make some appetizing food or has the need to be head-chef at the cookout, he’ll always be well-prepared!
Stone Grilling Kit
Some retirees like to take up cooking or learn how to make new recipes. Get him this sizzling stone kit! Using it is fairly simple, all he needs to do is remove the stone from the tray and pop it in the oven for a few minutes. When ready, he places it back in the tray and can sear his steak, cook his seafood, vegetables, or just about anything he desires on it right in front of him.
Wireless Headphones
For the retiree that appreciates listening to music, podcasts and, audiobooks, no gift is more perfect than a pair of wireless headphones! Wireless noise headphones are designed to deliver the most incredible sound quality without allowing any exterior interference to ruin his favorite podcast or a thrilling part of the audiobook. With over 25 hours of battery life, wireless headphones are perfect for those flight layovers or simply spending the day relaxing in the sun and listening to a couple of podcasts.

Ventana Winds Retirement Community Youngtown, Arizona

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

How To Save For Retirement Without A 401k

How can you save money for retirement without having a 401k plan? Let’s look at a few options!

Saving For Retirement Without A 401k Tips

There are plenty of alternative ways to save money for individuals without a 401k. Most freelancers and self-employed workers have no 401k offering, yet there are five easy tips to follow for saving towards retirement.

Tip 1. Save Tax Refunds

The easiest way to begin saving money is by putting away your entire tax return as soon as you receive it. Make a habit of doing this every single year, if you can afford to do so. There are a few different ways to save or invest this return each tax season. IRS form 8888, for example, will allow taxpayers to deposit the refund directly into two of more savings/investment accounts.

Tip 2. Open An IRA

One of the more popular options for employees without a 401k plan is opting to open an IRA. A Roth IRA or a traditional IRA will prove beneficial in the long run. Another important piece of information about these plans is they are not an exclusive offering. Any individual currently earning an income is free to open an IRA. This includes both unmarried individuals and individuals who are married to a spouse earning an income. Most freelancers or self-employed workers choose to open an IRA.

Tip 3. Contribute To A CD

Another options for individuals without a 401k is opening a certificate of deposit (CD). The biggest benefit of opening a CD is that you are free to withdraw your money on demand, in most cases. This is great in the event you run into some sort of pressing financial situation or medical emergency. CDs are also insured by the federal government to never lose value.

Tip 4. Self-Employed 401k Plan

Also known as a solo 401k, a self-employed 401k plan allows you to contribute twice. This is possible because you are allowed to contribute both as an employer and employee. As long as your total earnings does not surpass $19,500, you can contribute up to 100% of your yearly income. When contributing as the employer, though, you can only contribute up to 25% of your yearly income. Spouses of participants of this plan are also eligible to open a self-employed 401k.

Tip 5. Health Savings Account

Whether or not you have chosen to open an IRA or contribute to a CD, you should consider the idea of opening an additional health savings account. A health savings account (HSA) has many benefits, including tax-free withdrawals and growth potential. After the age of 65, you are eligible to take money out of this account with no penalties.

When Should I Start Saving For Retirement?

The financial experts say that everyone should begin saving as soon as they can, of course. While this seems to be a case of easier said than done, there are many available savings options for young people. A great rule of thumb is to put away 10% of your monthly income each and every month. For example, putting away 10% of your $5,000 monthly income will lead to $500 in savings. $500 saved each month for a year will equate to $6,000 in yearly savings. Not a bad start at all when it comes to saving for retirement!

Starting the savings process in your 20s will help cover you for any stock market dips. Charles Schwab conducted a recent survey which revealed that Americans believe they need to save $1.7 million by age 65. If this is the target figure, it means you will have to save a minimum of $500 per month, beginning at age 25.

Saving this amount of money monthly can be unreasonable in many cases. Many 25-year-olds are just starting out in the job market. Others may be struggling to pay off student loans and/or raising a young family. If you decide to kick your retirement savings days down the road, then the amount you’ll have to save each month will undoubtedly increase.

Average Age When Americans Start Saving For Retirement

According to Morning Consult, these are the average age groups when Americans start saving for retirement:

Ages 20-29: 39%
Ages 30-39: 25%
Ages 40-49: 15%
Ages 50-59: 6%

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

When Might Be The Best Time To Start Saving For Retirement?

The first step towards retirement is saving as much money as possible. When is the best time to start saving, though? We’re here to provide some tips on saving towards retirement.

When To Start Saving For Retirement

How To Save Money

Perhaps you are already out of your 20s and you haven’t started saving for retirement yet. Experts suggest the next best time to begin saving money is now! At this point, putting away any dollar amount you can afford is a good start. If possible, jump on your employer’s 401 (k) plan as soon as possible. Opening a traditional IRA can provide even more investment opportunities than the typical 401 (k) plan. An IRA comes with a $6,000 contribution limit for anyone under age 50.

Fortunately, there are a few other ways one can save money for retirement. Begin by putting away any unexpected or extra cash flow. This could include anything from birthday checks to bonuses. Try avoiding any luxury purchases until you know for sure that you can afford it. Put away any and all spare change for the time being. Picking up a part-time job could also prove beneficial towards retirement savings.

Average Age When Americans Start Saving For Retirement

According to Morning Consult, these are the average age groups when Americans start saving for retirement:

Ages 20-29: 39%
Ages 30-39: 25%
Ages 40-49: 15%
Ages 50-59: 6%

Tips For Spending Less Money And Saving For Retirement

One important thing to do when saving for retirement is to examine your current spending habits. Here are three simple ways to save right now:

Re-Consider Big Purchases

All large purchases need to be thought about for long periods of time. Can you make do without that new car or home renovation? If an upgrade is needed, consider some low-cost alternatives. The money you save today could be used tomorrow in your retirement.

Consolidate Your Credit Card Debt

Shifting some of your higher-interest credit card debt to a lower-interest debt consolidation loan could undoubtedly leave you with some additional savings to put towards your retirement fund.

Decrease Your Credit Card Debt

Easier said than done, but decreasing your credit card debt today is crucial. Here’s a tip: pay your credit card bills in full every month to avoid any interest charges. If that’s not possible at this point, work to pay down your credit card debt as quickly as you can.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

Best Low Stress Jobs After Retirement

Are you looking for some work after retirement, yet want to keep the stress to a minimum? Here are a few of the best low stress jobs after retirement.

Tour Guide

There may not be a more relaxing and enjoyable job after retiring than guiding tours. With this role, you’ll likely be interacting with fun and excited tourists. Share your knowledge of the area or certain landmarks as a paid tour guide. A great benefit of this job is the flexible hours since most tours will run at nights or on the weekends.

Data Entry

Perhaps working as a tour guide doesn’t appeal to you since you’ll have to leave the home and interact with lots of people. If you’re instead interested in working from home, then a data entry position could be a perfect fit. Data entry appeals to many because you won’t have to deal with customers all day, unlike customer service representatives. All you might need for this position is a laptop and basic computer skills.

Customer Service Representative

Many people do miss the social interaction that was created in the workplace. For these type of retirees, customer service roles are ideal. In these positions, you will either speak with customers on the phone or interact with them online. A large majority of these positions went remote during the pandemic, so there should be many openings.

Career Coach

The younger generation is constantly seeking career advice. That is where you could come in! Consider the idea of helping those in need of career coaching. If you’ve seen it all during your working days, then share your knowledge, including resume and interview tips. Online video platforms like Zoom and Skype can be used to do this job from home.

Writer

Previous experience or not, writing can be a great outlet for retirees. For those looking to start out writing, there are plenty of online opportunities. Some gigs may not pay at first, but the experienced gained will come in handy. Consider performing the role of editor if you have years of experience.

Musician

You might have ditched many hobbies once your career took off, but retirement is the time to pick those fun hobbies back up! If playing an instrument was a big part of your past, you can now implement it into your present and future, as well. Place an ad or look for any musicians wanted in the local area. Sure, the pay might not be great, but this is about the joy of music.

Pet Sitting

There are many ways to get more animals in your life. Thanks to numerous websites and applications, dog walking or pet sitting is just a click away. Busy adults nowadays are looking for people to walk their dog(s) during the workdays. You can even offer to watch the animals overnight.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

Retiring In Arizona Pros And Cons

More and more retirees are flocking to Arizona for the plethora of sunshine, strong economy and scenic views. If you are currently searching for “retiring in arizona pros and cons“, this will be your guide!

Retiring In Arizona Pros

Pro #1: Most Sun In The U.S.
Pro #2: Less Tax Burdens
Pro #3: Low Cost Of Living
Pro #4: Scenery
Pro #5: Sporting Options

Find out why so many retirees are deciding to call Arizona home!

Most Sun In The U.S.

Less Tax Burdens

Arizona offers less tax burdens for residents compared to other states. Allowing residents to keep as much of their income as possible has helped the valley grow exponentially for several decades.

Low Cost Of Living

Scenery

Sporting Options

Known as a golfer’s paradise, the valley offers many world-class resorts and destinations. From Sedona to Tucson, retirees’ can enjoy their favorite hobby in style. The PGA’s Waste Management Phoenix Open is played annually in Scottsdale, as well. There’s more than just golf in Arizona, though! Residents also enjoy watching teams in all four major sports, including the Diamondbacks (MLB), Cardinals (NFL), Suns (NBA) and Coyotes (NHL).

Retiring In Arizona Cons

Con #1: Extreme Heat
Con #2: Snowbirds
Con #3: Monsoons/Haboobs

Read more about a few drawbacks of living in the valley.

Extreme Heat

From October to April, it’s nearly impossible to find a more comfortable place to call home. The summertime, though, can bring some extreme heat to the area. Arizona frequently hits triple-digit heat during summer days. The good news is an escape is not far away! If you live in Phoenix, a short two-hour drive north can get you to Flagstaff, where the month of July experiences an average temperature of 82 degrees.

Snowbirds

Many people, especially retirees, desire a place like Arizona because it seems very isolated and secluded. This is certainly not the case during the cooler months. This time of the year will bring a lot of tourists to the area. Known as “snowbirds”, these tourists will cause an increase in traffic from October to April.

Monsoons/Haboobs

Every area experiences inclement weather, and the valley is no exception. June to September is Arizona’s monsoon season, where residents will experience strong winds and rainstorms. Haboobs, which are large dust storms, generally follow in the monsoon’s footsteps.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

Is Arizona A Good Place To Live

What should you know about Arizona besides the Grand Canyon? Well, for starters life in Arizona features far more beauty than one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

In fact, the red rocks of Sedona, Horseshoe Bend and Saguaro National Park are just a few tastes of the scenic views offered in the valley of the sun. Phoenix was recently ranked as the 5th-largest city in the U.S., and it continues to grow each day. With more and more people choosing to move to Arizona, here is a look at some of the pros, cons and best spots to call home!

Pros And Cons Of Living In Arizona

Here are a few of the biggest advantages and disadvantages of life in Arizona:

Pro: Low Cost Of Living

According to BestPlaces, Arizona is more affordable than the majority of the country. Whether you are looking for a small studio apartment or large family home, chances are good that you’ll pay less than expected in the valley of the sun. Combine the low cost of living with the state’s booming economy and strong job market, and the future is certainly bright in Arizona.

Con: Summer Heat

Pro: Sunny Days

The state of Arizona gets 299 sunny days per year, which is the most in the entire country. Even the sunshine state of Florida does not receive as much sun as Arizona. Get a healthy dose of vitamin D when you move to the valley of the sun.

Con: Lots Of Tourists

Pro: Scenery

Con: Rattlesnakes

This is probably something you already know about Arizona. Yes, rattlesnakes live in the Arizona deserts. While you are on one of these scenic hikes, pay attention to where you are placing your feet. Arizona averages a recorded 150 rattlesnake bites per year.