EY Y04 L14 Retirement

  1. There are many hobbies that are associated with retirement. Name one. Why do you think this is popular with retirees?
  2. Have you ever tried this activity? If yes, how was it? If no, would you like to? Why?
  3. What is the age of retirement in your country? Is it older or younger than other countries? Do you think it is a fair age? Why?
  4. Tell us about someone you know who is retired. How do they spend their time?
  5. Do you think they like being retired? Why?
  6. Are you retired? If yes, what do you do and how do you like retirement? If no, when would you like to retire and how would you like to spend your “golden years”?

Question 1

In Japan, I have noticed that hiking is popular among retired people. I think it is popular because staying physically active and mobile is very important, especially as we age.

Question 2

I have been hiking before, but it was pretty difficult sometimes. There were some mountains that were much harder to climb and I was worried if I could make it back down. I had to rely on others to find a nice path.

Question 3

In the United States, the age of retirement is 62, a bit earlier than Japan's age of 65. I feel that it is an appropriate age because we need more time to focus on our health and it becomes more important as we get older. We also need to reduce the amount of stress in our lives.

Question 4

In all three prefectures I have lived in, I have seen many people play gateball at local parks or by the river. Many of my neighbors participated regularly. In the US, my grandmothers usually enjoyed arts and crafts or cooking, while my grandfathers usually still did work at home like farming.

Question 5

I think most of them enjoy being retired. It would be very nice to have time to do the things you love.

Question 6

I am not, but it would be nice! I can't imagine working until I'm 65 years old. I think I would be really tired. Hopefully I can retire a bit earlier and spend some of my healthier years traveling and enjoying Earth. After I am content, I would like to spend the rest of my time in the countryside in a beautiful house with a garden.

Tough Vocabulary