Fun Things to Do in Retirement

Just the thought of retirement is appealing. Finally, we can focus on fun instead of work obligations. Maybe you already have a bucket list of retirement to-dos. If not, it’s never too early to start dreaming ahead. And if you’re already retired, then get busy! Fun awaits, no matter your interests, capabilities, or budget.

In retirement, you have more time to devote to things you love, and also time to expand your horizons by trying new things. Challenging yourself is good for the body, mind, and spirit. So are relaxing pursuits. When seniors engage in activities that are personally interesting and meaningful, that “active enjoyment” helps boost physical health, happiness, resilience, and lifespan.

So now that spring is here, let’s look at some ways retirees can have fun in the outdoors.

Love to Travel?

You don’t have to take a round-the-world cruise to see new sights. Hop in the car and visit our nation’s multitude of gorgeous and fascinating national parks. Or become a backyard tourist. Sadly, local residents tend to know a lot less about nearby attractions than out-of-towners. Every state, including our own Georgia, has online resources to fuel your discovery and make your plans.

You don’t even have to leave home. Armchair travel has become a hot ticket. Read books set in exotic locations. Watch travel and adventure documentaries on YouTube or Netflix. Some of them follow individual wanderers, so you can experience the journey right along with them.

Volunteer

Put your crafting or hobby skills to work creating items needed by the homeless, hospitalized children, or fellow seniors. Collect food for the food bank or visit pets at your local shelter. Serve on a board of directors, or help support outdoor events that benefit local non-profits.

Volunteering helps keep you active, it’s a great way to socialize and meet new people, and it is very rewarding. There’s even a possible financial benefit because volunteer-related expenses, such as mileage or gas, may be tax-deductible. Check with your tax advisor.

Get Your Blood Flowing

Maintaining your mobility as best you can is key to health and well-being. In fact, physical activity provides numerous immediate and long-term benefits for those 65 and older. Spring and summer, even early fall, are ideal for walking, hiking, and biking.

Take a street dance class. Find out for yourself why pickleball is all the rage with seniors, even those who never played court sports. Exercising with friends can exponentially increase the fun and also help you stay with your exercise regimen.

Yoga and tai chi are excellent options for strengthening muscles and balance while helping calm your mind and reduce stress, and they lend themselves nicely to outdoor settings. Gardening is also a satisfying way to enjoy the outdoors, and who doesn’t love flowers and fresh veggies?

Learn Something New

Take up plein air painting or drawing, which consists of making art outdoors of the scenery around you. Learn to play a portable instrument, such as the guitar or flute, you can play outdoors as you enjoy nature. Learn a new language (perhaps to augment your travel plans). Identify birds and plants as you spend time outdoors by downloading free apps. Merlin identifies bird calls even if you can’t see the bird. Snap a photo and Plant.id will tell you what that is.

So, What Sounds Fun to You?

If you’re lucky enough to live at Magnolia Manor, you can find a wealth of engaging and enjoyable things to do right at your fingertips, whether you’re still fully independent or you reside in assisted living. Beyond that, all you have to do is use your imagination to plan fun into every day of your retirement.

What’s it really like at Magnolia Manor? Come see for yourself! Schedule a tour today at any one of our 8 communities or give us a call at (855) 540-LIFE to learn more.