In the run-up to retirement is the time to start financial planning, and lifestyle adjustments. This phase can be both exciting and challenging, as a person prepares to transition from a career-focused life to a more leisurely and potentially less financially secure phase. Here are some key considerations during the run-up to retirement:

1. Financial Planning:

   • Review your current financial situation.
   • Calculate your retirement savings and investments.
   • Set retirement income goals and budgets.
   • Consider consulting with a financial adviser.
   • Understand your pension or Social Security benefits.

2. Debt Management:

   • Pay off high-interest debts, like credit cards and loans.
   • Assess your mortgage and consider if it's best to pay it off before retiring.

3. Healthcare Planning:

   • Understand your healthcare options. 
   • Assess your current health and anticipate future healthcare needs.

4. Social Security benefits:

   • Decide when to start receiving Social Security benefits. 
   • Consider the implications of your decision on your overall retirement income.

5. Retirement Accounts:

   • Maximise contributions to retirement accounts.
   • Learn about any tax-advantaged retirement accounts.

6. Investment Strategy:

   • Adjust your investment portfolio to reduce risk as you approach retirement.
   • Consider a more conservative allocation of assets to protect your savings.

7. Work Transition:

   • Plan how you will transition from full-time work to retirement.
   • Consider part-time work or phased retirement if it suits your goals.

8. Lifestyle Adjustments:

   • Think about how you want to spend your time in retirement.
   • Consider relocating, downsizing, or renovating your home as needed.

9. Estate Planning:

   • Update your will, beneficiaries, and other estate planning documents.
   • Plan for passing on assets to heirs.

10. Hobbies and Interests:

    • Identify and cultivate interests or hobbies you'd like to pursue in retirement.

11. Social Connections:

    • Consider how you will maintain social connections and build a social network in retirement.

12. Emotional and Psychological Preparation:

    • Mentally prepare for the psychological aspects of retirement, such as the shift in identity and daily routines.

13. Legal Matters:

    • Address any legal concerns or issues that may impact your retirement plans.

The run-up to retirement is a crucial time to make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition into this new phase of life. It's advisable to seek professional advice, whether it's from financial planners, legal advisers, or healthcare professionals, to make the process as seamless as possible.