How to Live Your Best Life After 65

Author

Assured Assisted Living

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Assured Assisted Living

Posted on

Jan 17, 2022

Book/Edition

Colorado - Denver Metro

Gone are the days when retirement and advancing years were associated with being incapacitated and decrepit. Today that image is changing for the better. And we encourage that if you are nearing retirement, form some plans to make the most out of this free time.

Here are some ideas on how you can continue to live an enriching, quality, and the best of your life after hitting 65.

Time Out for The Things You Love
Old age is the perfect time for people to do things they've always wanted to do. Your children are all grown up and you have plenty of time on your hands. So, before looking up a long-term care facility near me in Google, be sure to take some time to do things you've always wanted to do.

It could be enrolling in cooking classes, trying new foods or recipes, or learning a new language. Perhaps you always wanted to get a pilot's license. Or maybe you always wanted to learn piano but never had the time. Get online and get yourself in the right courses. Seize the moment.

Get Moving
Avoid a sedentary life at all costs. It's easy to get lazy when you don't have much commitment. But remember people over 65 years of age are more prone to developing depression, arthritis, obesity, diabetes, memory loss, and myriad health conditions unless they remain active enough.

And, while you don't have to hit the gym; you could go for a walk by grabbing your favorite pair of shoes. Consider light exercises like Pilates, ballroom dancing, swimming, yoga, or anything your heart desires.

Have a Sense of Purpose
Since you no longer have kids to look after, you could try adopting an animal like a cat or a dog. There's nothing quite like looking after another creature to give you a sense of purpose. If you plan on moving to a retirement community, then look for assisted living homes that allow pets.

Travel as Much as You Can
Go out and explore the world. Use some of the money you saved for retirement towards visiting your favorite countries or places. Although due to COVID travel restrictions have gotten stricter; there are still several beautiful places you could visit in Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries with travel relaxations.

Traveling makes you a richer person. It opens you to new experiences and adventures. That sense of newness when you immerse in new cultures/places keeps your spirits high. It's the best way to remain young at heart and stay purposeful. Seeing how the rest of the world lives could also offer you a new perspective on life.

Prioritize Family and Friends
Being busy with a job and career doesn't always give you time to spend time with friends and family. But, during retirement, you have the perfect opportunity to visit your sons, daughters, and grandkids.

Call them up or invite them over for dinner. Plan a few holidays with them. Now is the time to express your love for them as nothing is keeping you busy. If you're divorced or widowed, you could consider going on a new date.

There are dating sites dedicated to seniors. If your friends don't live nearby; then join activities and clubs to make new ones.

Learn New Things
Learning should never stop. Even when you're old. A growing number of seniors are now choosing to develop a new skill or learn a new language as they retire. You could always visit your local community college and see what all courses they have to offer. You could even get a senior discount.

Find a course that sounds interesting. The best thing about learning something new is that it keeps you mentally sharp. It slows down cognitive decline. Let's not forget the proud feeling of having learned something new.

Volunteer In Your Local Area
There's nothing more meaningful and rewarding than giving back to society. You can do that by volunteering at a local school, community center, church, memory care center or hospital. You could even volunteer at a charity shop. Alternatively, you could reach out to family and friends to offer help in case they need it. You never know! A spring-cleaning break could be an excuse to bond with your grandchildren.

Connect with New People
As humans, we crave and thrive on social connections. During old age, it's easy to become isolated from everyone. This is not good for your mental health. Connecting with new people keeps you mentally well. Its good for your spirit.

So, take time to socialize with interesting people. You could join a community, a club, a swimming pool, or hobby classes to meet with them. Traveling is another way to find like-minded people.

Meeting new people is great for your mental health. Go for a coffee or an outing with new friends you make.

Take Care of Your Looks
No! Looking good is not selfish or narcissistic. It's a form of therapy and remaining in good spirits. The way you look says a lot about your self-worth and how you view yourself.

Here are some useful tips to look sharp -

Get a fresh haircut
Take care of your dental health by regularly brushing/flossing
Wear clothes that not only fit nice but also make you look better
Go for a head massage once in a while
Women should try wearing pearls while men should ensure grooming sessions like shaving, etc.

Final Thoughts
Old age does not have to be a painful or isolating period waiting for the inevitable death to arrive. With proper planning and commitment, this could be one of the most beautiful and rewarding periods of your life.

Other Articles You May Like

Senior Bone Health: Vitamin D Benefits

As we age, maintaining bone health becomes increasingly crucial, helping to ensure mobility, independence, and a high quality of life. A key player in this aspect of our well-being is vitamin Doften dubbed the 'sunshine vitamin.' This essential nutrient plays an indispensable role in maintaining bone density and aiding calcium absorption, ensuring our bones stay strong and healthy. All About Vitamin DVitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin, is a powerhouse essential for many bodily functions. Its most crucial task involves promoting calcium absorption in the gut and maintaining adequate calcium and phosphate concentrations in the body. These actions ensure the normal mineralization of bones. Without sufficient vitamin D, bones can become brittle, thin, or misshapen. How Vitamin D Prevents Osteoporosis and FracturesOsteoporosis is a serious problem for many seniors. It's characterized by a decrease in bone density, leading to fragile bones and an increased risk of fractures. Thankfully, vitamin D can serve as an effective prevention tool. Regular vitamin D intake helps maintain bone density, reducing the risk of fractures and slowing the progression of osteoporosis. Of course, always consult with your doctor if you're looking for ways to prevent osteoporosis and other health issues. Sources of Vitamin DSo, where can you get this essential vitamin? Our body produces vitamin D naturally when exposed to sunlight. For seniors, a daily exposure to the sun of 15-20 minutes can significantly aid in vitamin D production. Of course, one must ensure safe sun practices, like wearing a hat, protective clothing, and sunscreen on exposed skin to avoid sunburns.Dietary sources offer another avenue of vitamin D intake. Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, fortified dairy products, egg yolks, and beef liver are rich in vitamin D. Incorporating these into your daily diet can significantly contribute to maintaining your vitamin D levels.The Importance of Regular Vitamin D Intake What happens when the body doesn't get enough vitamin D? Vitamin D deficiency can lead to bone abnormalities such as soft bones (osteomalacia) or fragile bones (osteoporosis). It's vital, especially for seniors, to regularly monitor vitamin D levels and maintain adequate intake to prevent such health challenges. Regular screenings, a balanced diet, and safe sun exposure can help ensure you're getting enough of this crucial vitamin. Of course, talk to your healthcare provider about any major changes to your diet or supplements you're taking. Senior Helpers Provides Essential Care for SeniorsAt Senior Helpers Fort Collins, we understand the importance of bone health for seniors and are committed to providing services that enhance the lives of our clients. Whether you live in Fort Collins, Englewood, Littleton, Lone Tree, or Longmont, we are here to support you on your health journey. We can offer assistance with meal prep, help seniors keep up with their dietary requirements, or offer companionship services that can enhance seniors' quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you or your loved ones in maintaining a healthy, fulfilling lifestyle.

Harmony in Transition: Senior Organizing for a New Beginning

Welcome to A Call to Order Professional Organizer, where we specialize in guiding seniors through the process of transitioning to new living arrangements with harmony and ease. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the importance of senior organizing for creating a smooth and harmonious transition to a new beginning. From decluttering and downsizing to settling into a new home, our team is dedicated to providing expert guidance and support every step of the way.The Significance of Harmonious Transitions for SeniorsAs seniors embark on the journey of transitioning to new living arrangements, it's crucial to prioritize harmony and tranquility throughout the process. Transitioning to a new home can be emotionally and physically taxing for seniors, and maintaining a sense of harmony can help alleviate stress and anxiety. By carefully organizing the transition process, seniors can embark on their new beginnings with confidence and peace of mind.Strategies for Achieving Harmony in Senior TransitionsStart with a Clear Plan: The key to achieving harmony in senior transitions is to start with a clear and comprehensive plan. Work closely with your organizing professional to outline the steps involved in the transition process, from decluttering and packing to moving and settling into your new home. Having a clear plan in place will help minimize confusion and uncertainty, allowing for a smoother transition.Declutter with Purpose: Before embarking on your transition journey, take the time to declutter your current living space. Sort through your belongings and identify items that you no longer need or use. Consider donating or selling these items to lighten your load and create a more harmonious living environment. Remember, less clutter means less to pack and move, making the transition process more manageable.Create a Tranquil Moving Environment: Moving day can be hectic and overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can also be a harmonious experience. Create a tranquil moving environment by setting the tone with soothing music, aromatherapy, and calming dcor. Encourage open communication and collaboration among family members and movers to ensure a harmonious moving process.Personalize Your New Space: Once you've arrived at your new home, take the time to personalize your space and make it your own. Surround yourself with familiar belongings and cherished mementos that bring you joy and comfort. Create designated areas for relaxation, hobbies, and socializing to promote a sense of harmony and well-being in your new environment.Establish Routines and Rituals: Adjusting to a new living environment can take time, but establishing routines and rituals can help create a sense of stability and continuity. Set aside time each day for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it's enjoying a morning cup of tea on the patio or taking an evening stroll around the neighborhood. By incorporating familiar routines into your new lifestyle, you can foster a sense of harmony and belonging in your new home.Seek Support and Guidance: Finally, don't hesitate to seek support and guidance from professionals who specialize in senior organizing and transitions. A Call to Order Professional Organizer is here to provide expert guidance and support throughout every stage of your transition journey. Whether you need assistance with decluttering, packing, or settling into your new home, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve harmony and peace of mind.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand the importance of achieving harmony in senior transitions. Our team is committed to providing expert guidance and support to seniors as they embark on their new beginnings. Let us be your partner in creating a smooth and harmonious transition to your new living arrangement. With our expertise and dedication, we'll help you navigate the process with confidence and peace of mind, ensuring that you can embrace your new beginning with grace and tranquility.

Kitchen Gadgets for Seniors: Making Cooking Easier and Safer

As we age, simple tasks like cooking can become more challenging. However, with the advancements in technology and the availability of kitchen gadgets designed specifically for seniors, cooking can continue to be enjoyable and hassle-free. Cooking at home allows seniors to control the ingredients and portion sizes, which can positively impact their health and nutrition. Additionally, seniors often have specific dietary requirements or restrictions, and preparing meals at home allows them to choose healthier options, control the amount of salt, sugar, and fat in their meals, and incorporate various nutritious ingredients.In this article, we explore a range of innovative kitchen gadgets that can make cooking easier, safer, and more accessible for seniors, empowering them to continue preparing their favorite meals at home with joy and confidence.Ergonomic UtensilsFor seniors with arthritis or reduced dexterity, traditional kitchen utensils can become difficult to handle. Ergonomic utensils are designed with user-friendly features such as comfortable grips, larger handles, and lightweight materials, making them easier to hold and maneuver. These utensils can include knives, peelers, spatulas, and ladles, all tailored to minimize strain on the hands and joints. Ergonomic utensils are practical and help reduce the risk of accidents in one of our favorite rooms in the home, the kitchen. Automatic Can Openers Opening cans can be challenging at any age, especially for seniors with weakened grip strength or limited hand mobility. Automatic can openers are simple to operate and require minimal effort. These devices can safely and efficiently open cans, eliminating manual twisting or gripping. Some models even feature hands-free operation, where the can opener attaches to the lid and does all the work with the push of a button. Automatic can openers are easy to find and valuable to any senior's kitchen, providing convenience and helping senior loved ones stay independent.  Easy-to-Read Digital ScalesAccurate measuring is crucial in cooking and specialty baking, but reading small print on traditional measuring scales can be challenging for seniors. Easy-to-read digital scales feature large, high contrast displays with clear numerical values, making it easier for seniors to measure ingredients accurately. These scales often come with additional features such as tare function (resetting to zero after placing a container), unit conversion, and weight-locking capabilities. With digital scales, seniors can follow recipes with precision and achieve consistent results in their culinary endeavors. Best of all, Grandma's favorite cookies will continue to be the delicious treat we all remember! Safety Induction CooktopsTraditional stovetops can pose safety risks for seniors, including burns and accidental fires. Safety induction cooktops offer a solution by utilizing electromagnetic fields to generate heat directly in the cookware rather than on the surface. These cooktops remain cool to the touch, reducing the risk of burns. Additionally, they have built-in safety features such as automatic shut-off timers, temperature controls, and pan detection, ensuring that the cooktop turns off when the cookware is removed. Safety induction cooktops provide seniors a safer cooking alternative without compromising performance or versatility. Incorporating kitchen gadgets tailored for seniors can significantly enhance their cooking experience, making it safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable. From ergonomic utensils to automatic can openers, easy-to-read digital scales, and safety induction cooktops, these gadgets are designed to address seniors' specific challenges in the kitchen. By embracing these innovative tools, our senior loved ones can maintain their independence and bring joy to each day, continuing to prepare delicious meals with ease.  Comfort Keepers Can Help Our caregivers, who we call Comfort Keepers, can help seniors prepare meals, stick to an exercise plan, and provide transportation to preventive care and other doctors visits. Friendly, consistent support can help seniors make healthy changes in their livesand make it fun at the same time. Our Comfort Keepers give seniors the encouragement they need to remain healthy, happy, and engaged in activities they love every day.