As we age, countless things happen as we settle into our place in this world. Our personal evolution continues, and life changes us, whether we like it or not. When we reach our senior years, we generally have a clear picture of what kind of lifestyle we want. For many, living in a retirement community is one of those.
These days, being in a retirement community no longer means being tied to your rocking chair to watch TV. Many are now offering swimming, yoga, clubs, fitness and educational classes, golf, and happy hours. In addition to your current activities, consider these fun and exciting pastimes to keep you entertained:
1. Gardening
Gardening doesn’t only make you relax and unwind but also a way to stay active. When you’re digging in the dirt, planting, watering your plants, and removing weed, it helps you work out your upper and lower body muscles. Plus, you reap the benefits of your hard work when you taste your fresh vegetables or look at your beautiful flowers.
Other benefits of gardening are:
- Encourages the use of your motor skills
- Reduces stress and promotes relaxation
- Provides stimulation and encourages your interest in nature and the outdoors
- Improves endurance and strength
2. Taking Care of Pets
Many retirement communities now allow their residents to have pets that they can take care of by themselves. If you currently have pets, you can bring them to your chosen retirement community. With your furry friend, you can have a walk to keep you active, especially when you’re not motivated.
While it’s a matter of personal preference, veterinarians suggest Poodle, Maltese, French Bulldog, and Schipperke as best companions. The advantages of taking care of pets in your golden years are as follows:
- It helps you stay active
- It helps ward off depression
- It makes you gain new friends
- As a protection
- Medical boosters
3. Music Therapy
Though some elderly have lost interest in music, many are still sound aficionados. When listening to music, you can give a boost to the quality of your life. It can even improve your mood, bring back older and happy memories, encourage socialization, and promote overall mental and physical health.
Try listening to positive and motivating music, as well as familiar ones. The best times to turn on some joyful tunes are when you are:
- Exercising
- Preparing for the day ahead
- Recounting older memories
- Doing some light housework
- With your friends or family
4. Lectures and Educational Classes
Expanding your knowledge helps you stay mentally alert and engaged. The best retirement communities provide on-site lectures or continuing educational classes, like Stoneridge Creek events. Some also arrange for residents to participate in academic and cultural events by nearby colleges.
5. Jewelry-Making
Most seniors don’t challenge their brains much once they hit retirement, leading to cognitive disorders over time. When you participate in jewelry-making activities, it helps you develop your creativity and imagination. You can also create a piece of jewelry with your own designs.
Moreover, it helps you be more relaxed and feel less stressed about your condition (if you have an illness). You even get to share this activity with others, plus you can wear, gift, and sell your beautiful creations.
Finally
If you just moved to a retirement community and find it hard to transition to your new living environment, these activities are perfect ways to help you adapt. Or, if you’re an active senior living in Pleasanton, for instance, still planning to live independently in a retirement community, choose one that meets your expectations.
Remember that it will be easy to find and connect with people because they share the same interests. Also, you will be living in a neighborhood with lots of opportunities and social activities.
