Laser Focus World is an industry bedrock—first published in 1965 and still going strong. We publish original articles about cutting-edge advances in lasers, optics, photonics, sensors, and quantum technologies, as well as test and measurement, and the shift currently underway to usher in the photonic integrated circuits, optical interconnects, and copackaged electronics and photonics to deliver the speed and efficiency essential for data centers of the future.

Our 80,000 qualified print subscribers—and 130,000 12-month engaged online audience—trust us to dive in and provide original journalism you won’t find elsewhere covering key emerging areas such as laser-driven inertial confinement fusion, lasers in space, integrated photonics, chipscale lasers, LiDAR, metasurfaces, high-energy laser weaponry, photonic crystals, and quantum computing/sensors/communications. We cover the innovations driving these markets.

Laser Focus World is part of Endeavor Business Media, a division of EndeavorB2B.

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Editorial Advisory Board

  • Professor Andrea M. Armani, University of Southern California
  • Ruti Ben-Shlomi, Ph.D., LightSolver
  • James Butler, Ph.D., Hamamatsu
  • Natalie Fardian-Melamed, Ph.D., Columbia University
  • Justin Sigley, Ph.D., AmeriCOM
  • Professor Birgit Stiller, Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, and Leibniz University of Hannover
  • Professor Stephen Sweeney, University of Glasgow
  • Mohan Wang, Ph.D., University of Oxford
  • Professor Xuchen Wang, Harbin Engineering University
  • Professor Stefan Witte, Delft University of Technology

Preparing for retirement? 6 expert tips for your health and finances

(BPT) - Retirement is a major transition in your life. While it can be an exciting chapter you may have long looked forward to, the key to making the most of your retirement is proper planning.

From finances to health care, here are the top six things you need to consider before making the leap.

1. Estimate your retirement budget

To help you feel more secure heading into retirement, it's helpful to calculate your expected income from Social Security, pensions, plus any investments and savings you may have. Then you'll need to estimate what your expenses may look like, including not only basic living costs like food, housing and insurance, but also any extras you may anticipate, like increased health care needs or travel. Consider inflation and rising health care costs in your calculations, so that you won't underestimate how much you'll need.

You can find a variety of helpful online tools such as retirement calculators at the Social Security website and wherever you have investments or a 401(k) plan.

2. Understand your health care options

It's a good idea to educate yourself on what Medicare does and does not cover before you are ready to retire. For example, many retirees are surprised to learn that Medicare does not cover things like routine vision care or hearing aids.

3. Don't overlook vision care

Because Medicare does not cover routine eye exams, you'll want to be sure you have coverage for this vital aspect of your overall health, whether or not you currently wear corrective lenses. Securing an affordable vision plan like a VSP® Individual Vision Plan now ensures that you'll have continued access to crucial annual eye exams and eyewear, helping you save money in retirement. VSP's affordable, same-day coverage ensures that retirees can maintain clear vision and eye health without unexpected expenses.

The best thing is, you can purchase a vision insurance plan with VSP at any time, with no need to wait for open enrollment or waiting periods. You can save up to $350 annually with affordable VSP Individual Vision Plans that you can customize and buy on your own. With a VSP vision insurance plan, you simply visit an eye doctor in the VSP network and you'll see 20% savings on additional glasses or sunglasses, including lens enhancements, by visiting a doctor in the VSP network within 12 months of your last exam. VSP members also have access to over $3,000 in savings with Exclusive Member Extras.

Visit VSPDirect.com to find the best vision plan for you. You'll be able to compare insurance plans and find the one that best meets your needs.

4. Consider downsizing or relocating

If you're open to the idea of downsizing or moving, relocating to a smaller home or a maintenance-free condo - especially in a tax-friendly or lower-cost area - can really help to stretch your retirement savings, while offering better amenities and less worry. This kind of move can help you maintain the lifestyle you want through retirement while also reducing your costs.

5. Plan for hobbies and social engagement

Happiness during retirement isn't just about money - it's also about how you spend your time. Make sure to include activities you love that will keep you socially, physically and mentally active in your retirement planning. You can find fun, friendship and fulfillment by engaging in volunteering, travel or learning a new skill.

6. Protect your legacy

To give you and your family better peace of mind, ensure that your will, power of attorney and insurance policies are all up to date. Organizing your paperwork and sharing your wishes clearly with your family can also help prevent unnecessary stress for your loved ones down the road.

Financial security is just one piece of your overall retirement planning. Making proactive health care choices, including crucial elements like your vision care, can help you stay more active and independent for years to come.

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