In a report by the Chicago Tribune, a large number of the American workforce will be retiring this year as the youngest members of the Baby Boomer generation begin turning 55. These retirees will be focusing more on how best to spend the years ahead.
But aside from planning investments and travel plans, retirees should think about how to lead healthier lives the moment they hang up their proverbial work boots.
Healthy living is a top priority for retirees and it’s important for them to know how to approach this phase in life properly. If you or someone you know is about to retire this year, here’s a guide keeping the mind and body healthy in your golden years.
1. Stay mentally sharp
You have worked so hard throughout your career and you probably experienced stress levels through the roof. But despite the relaxation of retired life, you still need to keep the mind active. Numerous studies suggest that a lack of mental activity can be disadvantageous for older adults.
Work provides ample cognitive exercise that can lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Once you retire, you may need to keep the mind active by engaging in analytical and creative activities such as playing chess, developing an artistic hobby, and acquiring new skills. Watercolor painting, writing an autobiography, and woodworking are just some of the creative pursuits to consider during retirement.
2. Keep socializing
Aside from these mentally stimulating activities, you can also meet with friends and family on a regular basis. You can join local clubs or organizations where you can meet new people who have the same interests as you, and grow your network of friends.
You may also join online groups and forums that discuss specific topics of interest. If you like jazz music, you can join social media groups dedicated to this genre. With constant communication, you are able to put your brain to work and build an effective support system.
3. Find a great location to retire
Whether you are planning to live in the same neighborhood or transfer to a new environment, the choice of location is an important factor for retirees. Fresh air and lush greenery are ideal for retirees who just want to enjoy life at their own pace.
If you are looking for a good location, make sure it offers the right climate and ample attractions for recreation and leisure. This won’t be much of a challenge if you already saved a lot to make the big move to top retirement destinations like Florida and Pennsylvania.
But if you are aiming to live at a place that offers the best amenities, you might consider a luxurious retirement community complete with personal care assistance, fitness programs, and cultural spaces. All of these should make for an enriching experience for both the mind and body.
4. Mind your diet
Once you have retired, you might be thinking about eating all your favorite foods, like Cajun fried chicken and huge steaks. Indulging might seem like a good idea until you develop a long-term condition that affects how you are going to enjoy the rest of your retirement.
As you age, you still need to keep your body in the best possible condition by eating right. Talk with a dietitian about the diet plans you can adopt based on any existing medical conditions.
For sure, you would be encouraged to consume fiber-rich food such as whole grains and legumes. In supplying yourself with the right amount of nutrients, you may need to eat low-calorie, low-fat meals that are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Also, make sure to take food supplements as per your doctor’s orders and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
5. Be physically active
Aside from diet plans, you might also need to adopt a daily workout regimen. Exercise is crucial in preventing serious ailments, from chronic heart disease to scoliosis. But before you get around to doing the routines you found on YouTube, you may need to talk with a fitness trainer if these are the right ones for you. To be sure, you might want to visit a fitness center offering special programs and rates for retirees.
The membership fee may include complimentary towels and drinks and an assigned trainer who will prescribe the right routines for your needs. For optimum fitness, make sure your workout program includes a variety of activities for strength, cardio, and balance. On other days, you can also go out for morning jogs around the neighborhood, practice tai-chi, or play tennis or golf.
Indeed, being retired doesn’t mean having to put your body to rest. You still need to take good care of it to make the most of the years to come.
They say age is just a number. Even so, you still have to do everything you can to make sure you’re still sharp and active to take on everything else that’s on your bucket list.