Five ideas for a healthy and happy retirement

Old lady with flowersMany people dread their retirement, seeing only a never ending stretch of non-activity ahead of them once their working days are done. In the 21st century, as more of us live longer, this needn’t be the case. Here are a few ideas for a happy and healthy retirement.

1. Change your accommodation

If you are no longer able to keep up the energy and expense of running your large family home, then retirement is the perfect time to downsize. Your grown up children may have moved away and some will complain when you suggest that you want to move but they don’t have to deal with the daily headaches of running a house, paying heating bills and all other domestic expenses! If you are looking for a reputable firm who have experience in retirement apartments then have a look at  McCarthy & Stone for some ideas.

2. Healthy habits for a happy retirement

It’s never too late to start exercising. Even if you may feel a little stiff when you first start your new exercise regime, you’ll soon find that after a couple of weeks you’ll be able to really enjoy yourself. If you’ve downsized and moved into a retirement apartment, you’ll probably be able to go on walks with other residents who also want to keep fit and healthy.

3. Keep your brain active in retirement

Scientists have discovered that the longer you keep mentally stimulated the happier you’ll be. The University of the Third Age is a wonderful organisation that promotes mental and physical activities for anyone over 50. This organisation has groups throughout the UK and if you’ve just moved into a retirement apartment you should try and track down your nearest group. It’s a great way to make new friends as well as keep your mental faculties stimulated.

4. Socialising is vital when you retire.

Once you’ve moved into your new flat, you could always knock on your neighbours’ doors and invite them around for a dinner party. This is the easiest way to make new friends. Obviously, you won’t gel with everyone but you may well develop a few close friendships with your new social group. If you are prone to low moods, socialising is a good way of helping you to stay positive and is a practical method of keeping busy and energetic.

5. Use your life skills and volunteer once you’ve retired

The Citizen’s Advice Bureau and other voluntary groups couldn’t run without the skill and expertise of the over 65 demographic. If your new flat is close to a town, look out for volunteering opportunities at your local library or town hall. This is also a great way to mix with people of all ages and will keep you active and engaged with your new local community.

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *