Retirement planning involves legal requirements and mental health considerations

Retirement involves both complex administrative planning and significant psychological transitions. Regarding social security, Alfonso Muñoz explains that determining the optimal retirement age requires calculating the ordinary retirement age and considering accumulated contributions. If a worker has contributed for at least 38.5 years, the retirement age is set at 65; otherwise, it rises to 67. There are two main types of early retirement: voluntary, which requires at least 35 years of contributions, and involuntary, which requires a minimum of 33 years for those losing employment through no fault of their own.

Psychologically, the transition from a structured work life to retirement can lead to feelings of sadness, apathy, or emptiness. While not a medical diagnosis, the loss of daily routines, social contact, and professional identity can cause depressive symptoms. Experts suggest that establishing new routines, such as regular schedules, hobbies, or social commitments, is essential to managing the sudden disappearance of work-related structure and preventing isolation.