Retirement is a transitional life event that originates changes individuals have to adapt to and which leads to bio physiological, psychological and sociological vulnerabilities. The aim of this study was to understand how Portuguese retirees perceive their retirement experience. We conducted a qualitative study with 18 focus groups (146 participants recently retired), in health functional units located throughout the center region of mainland Portugal. Information was submitted to content analysis, using NVivo10(r). Findings reveal that retirement interferes not only in the individuals' experiences but also affects their families' experiences. It leads to simultaneously perceptions of gains and losses and to the relearning and re-adaptation of life. We conclude that retirement is a transition phase of human development that can require an individual and family nursing intervention, which can help to promote a successful ageing process.