As we age, countless things take place 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 often have a clear picture of what way of life we want. For many, moving to a retirement home is one of those.
These days, being in a retirement neighborhood no longer means being confined to your rocking chair and watching TV. Many of them are now offering swimming, yoga, clubs, fitness and academic classes, golf, and happy hours. In addition to your current activities, consider these enjoyable and exciting leisure activities to keep you entertained:
1. Gardening
Gardening does not only make you relax and unwind but also allows you to stay active. When you’re digging in the dirt, planting, watering your plants, and removing weeds, it aids in exercising your upper and lower body muscles. Plus, you can enjoy the benefits of your hard work when you taste your fresh veggies 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 homes now allow their residents to bring pets that they can look after by themselves, without the help of caregivers. If you currently have dogs at home, you can bring them to your chosen retirement community. Take a walk with them, especially during those times when you’re not motivated.
While it’s a matter of personal preference, vets recommend Poodle, Maltese, French Bulldog, and Schipperke as finest companions. Here are a few advantages of taking care of pets in your golden years:
- 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 fanatics. When listening to music, you can give a boost to the quality of your life. It can even enhance mood, reminisce older and unforgettable memories, motivate socialization, and promote overall psychological and physical health.
Try listening to positive and motivating music, as well as familiar ones. The best times to switch 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 understanding helps you stay psychologically alert and engaged. The best retirement home provides on-site lectures or continuing academic classes. Some also encourage residents to take part in educational and cultural events by nearby colleges.
5. Jewelry-Making
Many senior citizens do not challenge their brains much once they hit retirement, resulting in cognitive disorders over time. When you get involved in jewelry-making activities, it helps you establish your creativity and imagination. You can also have a chance to create a piece of jewelry with your own style.
Additionally, 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 use, present, and sell your unique creations.
Lastly
If you recently moved to a retirement community and find it hard to transition to your new living environment, these activities are fun ways to help you adapt. Or, if you’re an active senior looking to move to a retirement community, you can search in your area or nearby and pick one that meets your needs and expectations. For example, go online and look for a Pleasanton retirement community if you’re nearby.
Bear in mind that it will be easy to find and get in touch with other residents because they share the same interests. On top of these, you will be living in a place with many opportunities and social activities.