The holiday season is a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with friends and family while creating lasting memories, for children and aging parents alike. There are always the usual stresses that arise this time of year, like making sure gifts are bought, meals are sorted, and activities are planned to keep everyone happy. However, […]
While many people are excited for retirement, many also ask themselves “What am I going to do with all my free time?” Most look forward to relaxing, reducing the stress in their lives that comes with work and simply enjoying life more. But the addition of unscheduled time leaves many people needing something to do in order to feel entirely fulfilled and happy. Continuing an active lifestyle into late adulthood also offers a variety of health benefits.
Trying new things as a senior can be intimidating, but when you have more free time, it can also be a great way to discover something new that you love and enjoy.
If retirement is on the horizon and you aren’t sure what you would like to do with your newfound freedom, here are some ideas to help get started:
- Volunteer – When working full time, many find they’re simply too busy to volunteer or get involved with a cause they may care about. Retirement is a great time to start making a difference in the community. Whether you volunteer once a week or every day, your efforts will help those in need, it will provide an opportunity to meet new people, it will keep you active and it feels good.
- Travel – Retirement is an ideal time to plan that vacation you couldn’t take previously. With no work responsibilities, retirees have the freedom to plan long trips to the places they’ve always wanted to go to. Whether you’ve always wanted to see the Great Pyramids or drive across country, traveling is a great way to add value to your senior years.
- Find a hobby – There are many hobbies or crafts many seniors enjoy. Maybe you loved photography in college but haven’t kept up with new technology or haven’t had time to practice your skills in a while. Perhaps you always wanted to learn to needlepoint or build furniture; retirement is the perfect time to take on those creative hobbies.
- Exercise – Staying active is important for seniors and there are so many options, you’ll definitely find an exercise you love. Yoga and Pilates are good activities for maintaining flexibility and balance. Walking, resistance training, or a combination of the two, help build strength and maintain stamina. Adopting a regular exercise program at any age offers an abundance of health benefits and allows you to enjoy life for as long as possible.
- Learn something new – Stimulating the mind is exercise for the brain. Did you love school and do you love learning new things? Why not consider going back to school? Local community colleges often have a variety of interesting classes with discounted fees for seniors. The local community center is another venue where classes may be offered.
- Join a club or association – Check in with your college alumni association, your local country club, or local Rotary club; joining a new organization or getting more involved in one where you’re already a member is a great way to meet new people and stay up-to-date on things you care about.
There is plenty to do during retirement! This list of ideas is just a start. If you’re committed to living an active lifestyle, we’re confident you will find many activities and hobbies that will interest and inspire you throughout your senior years.
