The Retiree Lifestyle Workshops will be offered online in an interactive webinar format this year, with the opportunity to ask questions. These webinars are for IMRF retirees only and are presented by the University of Illinois Extension Educators. The programs are free, but they require registration.
Fur Real Companionship
Explore the healing power of companionship, even if you can’t care for a pet yourself. pets can chase away loneliness, provide a sense of purpose, and get you moving. Explore fun alternatives for those who can’t care for a pet. Whether you’re an older adult, a family member, or a caregiver, this workshop will offer valuable insights and tips on how furry friends can enrich lives and create lasting bonds. (Runs for 1.5 hours)
Wellness in Nature
Spending time in nature can benefit mental and physical well-being. From creating a sensory experience while growing vegetables and fruits in a garden, to hiking and exploring a forest preserve, even a short amount of time spent in nature can improve overall health. Explore the health benefits of being present in nature and discover simple activities to foster experiences in the natural world. (Runs for 1.5 hours)
The Retiree Financial Workshop will be offered online in an interactive webinar format this year, with the opportunity to ask questions. These webinars are for IMRF retirees only and are presented by Karen Chan, Financial Educator. The programs are free, but they require registration.
Understanding Medicare Choices
Whether you’re signing up for the first time or wondering if you should make a change, this class will help you make a more informed decision about Medicare. We will break down the different types of medical expenses and compare how traditional Medicare (A/B/D & Supplement Plans) and Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) cover – or don’t cover – those expenses. We’ll talk about when you should sign up, when you can change from one plan to another, and the barriers to doing that.
Strategies for Claiming Social Security Benefits
Knowing your tools and learning how to use them makes any job easier. The same is true for estate planning. In this workshop, you’ll become familiar with a range of estate planning tools, what they do, and the terminology they use. In addition to wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, we will discuss the role that titling of property, and gifting can play. Finally, we’ll take a look at how these tools work with our tax system, including estate, income, generation-skipping and gift taxes.