Ulrike von der Groeben: Her Perspective on Life's Final Chapter
Contemplating Arrangements for Her Final Farewell - Considering funeral arrangements
"It's better to be prepared:" Ulrike von der Groeben (68), a former sports expert at "RTL aktuell," talks about her thoughts on death in an interview with spot on news. Her book "Freedom Begins Now!" (ZS Verlag, releasing on July 5th) is a mix of autobiography and retirement guide featuring expert conversations and tips. Here are some highlights from the chat:
The Role of Sports Post-Retirement
UvDG: I don't plan on altering my running routine, still hitting the pavement three times a week. I aim for two sessions of home strength training per week, focusing on dumbbells. As age advances, Pilates isn't quite sufficient enough; a bit of strength training is essential to stay healthier and fitter. I am enjoying my daily workouts even more now that I have the time for it. Sports keeps me in shape, keeps me healthy, and puts a smile on my face.
Long Covid's Impact
UvDG: Slowly but surely, symptoms are becoming less severe. Running at the beginning was especially challenging, to the point where I couldn't jog at all. But I remind myself that others have it far worse, so I feel grateful that I'm recovering. Today, I feel great again, almost back to normal.
Marital Bliss in Retirement
UvDG: My relationship with my husband remains unchanged. We're governors of our separate domains - I've beenworking on the book, and he's still commuting to work and performing in theater. Though our routines are pretty much the same, with breakfast being our favorite meal after our morning sports sessions, we sometimes eat dinner a bit earlier now.
The topic of Mortality
UvDG: I've started contemplating the topic of death more frequently, particularly after the loss of some dear ones. This conversation sounds rather morbid, but it does help when one prepares for the inevitable. I believe that having everything sorted out gives peace of mind, reducing the burden on my loved ones.
Fear of Death and Lack of Preparation
UvDG: I'm not afraid of the topic, but I often find myself procrastinating. There's seemingly an endless list of things to do, yet I often push off thinking about a living will or creating my last will and testament. I usually tell myself, "I'll get around to it when I have some free time." Then, of course, I would rather spend that time enjoying nature.
Funeral Plans and Music
UvDG: I've made one crucial decision regarding my funeral: I wish to be cremated. Yet, I've not fully considered what should happen to my ashes. I've even thought about the music I'd like playing at my funeral, wanting to share that burden with my children and no longer keep them guessing about my final wishes.
Lessons Learned During the Book Project
UvDG: My main piece of advice for those transitioning into retirement is to consider what truly matters to you at this stage of life. Discuss these values with your partner and establish a budget for your ideal retirement. Clarifying these aspects will help create a fulfilling retirement. Retirement should be the life phase you've always dreamed of.
Future Wishes and Adventures
UvDG: After completing the book project, there aren't any grand ambitions left to fulfill. However, my husband has long harbored a dream of living on a houseboat one day. And so, we are planning on renting one for a week's vacation - perhaps in Holland, where our little sailboat resides. We'll see if that floating lifestyle suits us!
- Ulrike von der Groeben shares, "I'm not sure when I'll write my living will or create my last will and testament, but I know I should."
- She reflects, "As I contemplate death more frequently, I realize the importance of ample fitness, even for aging contemporaries, to maintain mental health and overall health-and-wellness."
- In a lighter note, Ulrike admits, "Whether it's Pilates, strength training, or running, fitness keeps women's health in check and puts a smile on my face."
- She reflects on her marriage during retirement, stating, "My husband and I, both busy with our passions—his theater and my book—can still enjoy sharing daily activities like breakfast and a pleasant dinner together."
- Rather philosophically, Ulrike remarks, "After losing dear ones, I've learned that preparing for the inevitable—like planning for the music to be played at my funeral—offers a sense of peace and reduces the burden on my loved ones."
- Finally, she expresses her desire for adventure in the future, mentioning, "Though my book project is complete, I look forward to exploring new experiences, like renting a houseboat for a week-long vacation, as my husband and I continue our journey together."
