Retirement: Embracing an Active, Social, and Fulfilling Lifestyle
June 13, 2023
Retirement. Depending on whom you ask, that word may evoke many feelings. You might be excitedly counting down the days ‘til you can wake up and do whatever your heart desires. Maybe you’re looking forward to the new chapter in life but nervous about how you’ll spend your time in it. Without a doubt, retirement is a huge change. In the wise words of Fred Rogers, “Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.” After putting in years of demanding work, what will your “something else” look like?
Active Lifestyle
Seniors who engage in an active retirement lifestyle are happier and healthier! An active lifestyle includes both physical activities, like walking or playing pickleball, and mental exercises, like participation in hobbies. Experts have found that keeping an active lifestyle in retirement lowers the risk of: • Stroke • Heart Disease • Dementia • Depression So, unroll that yoga mat or sign up for that pottery class! Maybe you’re an avid reader, and a book club would be right up your alley. Is there an activity you’ve longed to dabble in but never found the time? The possibilities are endless!
Socialization
There are many ways to stay connected with others these days, even when being together in person isn’t possible (thank you, FaceTime and Zoom!). Socialization naturally goes hand in hand with leading an active lifestyle! Beyond visiting with family and friends, activities involve meeting and interacting with others. Positive social connections lower the risk of depression and may even improve cognition.
Giving Back
For many, giving back has been an essential part of our lives for as long as we can remember. And here’s the best part: for seniors in retirement, volunteering merges living an active lifestyle with socialization—for the benefit of others! Volunteers have less stress, lower blood pressure, and improved memory. Serving others through volunteering gives context to our lives and is linked to feelings of happiness and greater life satisfaction. No matter what your interests are, you are sure to find a volunteer opportunity that suits you! At The Hickman, we value serving others and invite our residents to volunteer their skills in various ways. Through Helping Hands, a group of residents assists with projects and programs at The Hickman. Our memory care neighborhood has achieved Bronze Status in becoming a Montessori-Inspired Lifestyle community. Through this program, residents engage in activity planning and take on leadership roles that bring their community closer together. Retirement life is so much more than the relief from the 9 to 5 grind! For many, the retirement years are the best years of their lives—a time to relax, begin (or hone) a hobby and spend time with loved ones. It’s a time to put yourself first, fill your days with activities that bring you joy and contentment, and experience all the things you’ve wanted to do in life but never got around to doing, until now! For more information about volunteer opportunities at The Hickman, contacts us.