Heading into retirement doesn’t have to be seen as the end, but rather a beginning period that holds a host of opportunities. Having a fulfilling and worthwhile retirement can include things such as staying connected with friends and trying your hand at the activities that you’ve always longed to do, but you never had the time.
The following are some helpful tips on how to be healthy and active throughout your golden years:
1. Travel the Globe
It can be difficult to find the time to travel with work and raising a family. However, now that you’ve retired, you are ready to see the world. Start out small with local communities and broaden your horizons to further destinations such as Hawaii, Africa and Europe. Airlines, lodging, museums, restaurants, zoos and theme parks usually offer special discounts to seniors too.
2. Stay Active
Research has shown that staying active into your retirement years can have a positive impact on your body both mentally and physically. Combat the aging process by including cardiovascular and strength training exercises into your daily regimen. Begin with basic moves like walking and move toward more advanced activities such as tennis, racquetball, golf and bike riding.
Grab your spouse or a friend and hit the gym or your senior center. Here you will find an assortment of classes designed to keep you moving. Zumba, yoga, weight training programs and Pilates are geared for all fitness levels, and they will help keep you mobile and healthy throughout your senior years.
3. Keep Your Mind Sharp
Exercising your mind is just as important as your body. Continue to challenge your mind continuously by learning something new. If you’re planning a trip to Paris, France, you can attend a course on learning the French language. Other activities to keep the mind sharp include card games, Sudoku, crossword puzzles, learning how to play an instrument and staying up to date with the latest advances in technology.
4. Stay Connected
Social interaction is important throughout your retirement years. If there are hobbies that hold special interest to you, join an organization or club with other individuals that share your passion. This could include book clubs for those that love reading, gardening for the horticultural enthusiasts or wood working. This is also a great way to make new friends and socialize.
For individuals in elder senior communities, there are a number of activities designed to fit most any lifestyle. Senior living centers are the perfect opportunity for seniors to stay active with other residents that are similar in age. They are also created to keep the individuals busy with both mental and physical activities that include golf, tennis, swimming, exercise classes, dancing, travel excursions, games, cards and movie night.
5. Volunteer
Volunteering is an excellent way to share your knowledge and help others. Whether your interests lie with helping the homeless, working at an animal shelter or building homes to aid those without shelter, giving back to the community feels good and gives you purpose.
You’ve worked hard most of your life to get to your retirement years. Now is the perfect time for you to do the things that you’ve always longed to do by getting involved, traveling the world and staying active through social functions.
Shelby Warden is a researcher that explores lifestyle trends for seniors. The best elder senior communities offer unique programs and activities designed to keep their senior residents both mentally and physically healthy and happy.