How do I Maintain an Active Retirement?

Maintaining an active retirement is generally a key factor in one’s physical, mental, and emotional health. Research has suggested that being active in retirement could help people avoid some health conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Seniors can stay active by engaging in regular physical activity, as well as by keeping their minds busy. Many people think of retirement as the end of an era, yet retiring from the labor force does not necessarily mean that one must give up other activities. Due to the longer life expectancies of many people throughout the world, most seniors are able to stay active and continue pursuing their interests well into their later years.

Some of the physical benefits of an active retirement include the possibility of warding off several adverse medical conditions. Regular exercise can help one maintain a healthy weight, while also having a positive impact on potential heart issues or high blood pressure. Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and some types of cancer are additional medical problems that could potentially be avoided with the right types of physical activity.

To be active, one does not necessarily have to engage in vigorous exercise. Many seniors enjoy walking, playing golf, and participating in other low-impact activities. Aerobic exercise, such as dancing or swimming, is also recommended for those in good health. Since balance is important for avoiding falls and other injuries, many fitness experts suggest finding activities that help maintain it and good posture. It is a common misconception that seniors should not perform strenuous physical activities. Actually, most physicians recommend regular, supervised exercise as a way to improve one’s overall fitness.

Maintaining an active retirement can benefit a person’s emotional health as well. Staying physically fit can help build confidence and reinforce one’s feelings of independence. Exercise can often help someone prevent depression. For example, he or she can often avoid loneliness by participating in a group exercise class. Furthermore, according to the results of a 2010 study, participants who believed that they had a purpose in life were less likely to develop dementia.

Several experts in elderly health claim that people can also maintain an active retirement by engaging in activities that stimulate critical thinking. Trivia games and word puzzles are two such pastimes that exercise the brain. One could also talk with other people about contemporary events. He or she can read the newspaper or watch televised news to stay informed. Intellectual stimulation, along with physical health, is another factor often cited in the recommendations for attempting to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

To get involved in new activities, retirees may check event calendars and exercise class schedules near where they live. For instance, many retirement communities advertise plenty of activities to fit various interests. It could help to involve one’s family members and friends in the pursuit of an active lifestyle. In addition, seniors who maintain an active retirement can have a positive impact on their children and grandchildren by staying involved in their lives and modeling healthy behaviors.