Retirement opens the door to a new world of hobbies and activities. But with so much time on your hands, how do you decide how to use it? There’s no end to the list of potential things to do in retirement. Staying healthy and active can be key to making the most of this new era, so finding fun things to do when retired can be important. To get you started, here are some things for retirees to do — along with the benefits they have for the mind and body.

 

things to do in retirement to keep busy

 

Exploring New Hobbies in Retirement

Retirement is the perfect time to dive deep into a new hobby. Besides keeping you entertained, a hobby can be a fun way to exercise your mind, which can boost brain health and minimize stress. If your hobby involves physical activity, it can also be a great way to get some exercise. With time and practice, hobbies can offer a sense of accomplishment that may do wonders for your self-esteem.

Popular Hobbies for Retirees

  • Gardening: Plotting, planting, and tending to a garden brings you closer to nature and boosts serotonin levels, which can improve your mood. The physical parts of this hobby can also strengthen your bones and reduce your risk of disease.
  • Arts and crafts: Crafts like sketching, painting, knitting, and pottery are fun creative outlets that leave plenty of room for improvement over time. Woodworking is another activity you can sink hours into, and it just happens to be one of the many retirement community amenities offered at Riddle Village.
  • Cooking and baking: Now’s the time to experiment with new recipes for a sense of accomplishment and a tasty product at the end of each session.
  • Photography: Brushing up on your photo-taking techniques means you’ll be well-equipped to capture every memorable moment during your retirement.

Staying Physically Active During Retirement

Taking care of your physical health is especially important as you age. Regular exercise is a crucial part of preventing disease and lowering your risk of falls, making it one of the best things to do in retirement. Physical activity also offers plenty of benefits for your mind, improving cognitive health and enhancing concentration. Staying active with a group of friends is a healthy way to socialize.

Fun Physical Activities for Retirees

  • Walking and hiking: Walking is one of the simplest and healthiest things to do during retirement. It gives you the chance to enjoy local green spaces and can be done alongside a fun conversation.
  • Swimming: This is a low-impact exercise, meaning it offers plenty of activity without the added joint strain. An on-site swimming pool means you’re never too far from the water at Riddle Village.
  • Yoga and tai chi: Over time, a daily yoga or tai chi practice can boost your flexibility and increase your sense of mindfulness.
  • Group fitness classes: Some of the best socialization can be had during a workout. Stop by a class at Riddle Village to strengthen your body beside your neighbors – no sign up required!

The Importance of Social Engagement

Socialization plays a big role in mental health maintenance. Engaging with others can reduce loneliness and lower your risk of anxiety and depression. It can also strengthen your cognitive health by improving your memory and helping you develop bonds with others.

 

things to do in early retirement

 

Social Activities for Retirees

  • Volunteering: Dedicating your time to a good cause offers a sense of purpose and a chance to give back to your community.
  • Clubs: Finding a group that shares your interest can turn your hobby into a collaborative experience.
  • Events and parties: Social gatherings in your community offer ways to build connections with those closest to you.
  • Travel: Traveling gives you the chance to immerse yourself in new cultures and form connections in new places.

Making Learning a Lifelong Journey

Continuous learning is one of the best things to do in retirement for cognitive health. New information helps keep your mind sharp and strengthens your memory. Plus, regularly exercising your brain can reduce your risk of cognitive diseases like Alzheimer’s.

 

what to do when retired

 

Educational Activities for Retirees

  • Taking classes: Community colleges and online learning platforms offer countless classes for accessible education in a wide variety of subjects.
  • Workshops and seminars: Educational seminars and workshops can be fun ways to get familiar with various topics during retirement.
  • Reading and book clubs: Book clubs are some of the most popular things to do in retirement for their mental stimulation and social connection over a shared hobby.
  • Learning a new language: Language learning is a fun way to simultaneously challenge your brain and explore a new culture.

Finding Creative Expression

Maintaining creativity is an important part of healthy aging. It can be soothing for your mind and offer physical benefits like better coordination and dexterity. Creative activities are an interesting way to find a sense of purpose during retirement. The confidence and self-expression you find through creative exploration make this one of the healthiest things to do in retirement.

 

things to do when you are retired

 

Creative Activities for Retirees

  • Writing and journaling: Writing creatively, starting a blog, or simply recording your own experiences are reflective ways to explore creative tendencies.
  • Music and singing: Turn your passion for music into a fun retirement hobby by joining a choir or trying your hand at a new instrument.
  • Dance and movement: Dance classes and movement-based therapies can help you get in touch with music and enjoy physical activity while you’re at it.
  • Theater and performance: Try out for community theater for a fun new way to express yourself onstage.

Making the Most of Your Retirement

From gardening to community theater, the list of fun things to do in retirement is nearly endless. With so many ways to stay active and creative, it helps to have a circle of like-minded retirees eager to make this journey with you. The community at Riddle Village offers a comfortable atmosphere and plenty of amenities for retirees looking to explore new passions and enjoy independent living in Pennsylvania. If an engaging and fun-filled community is what you’re looking for, you might find this the place for you.

Don’t wait to make the most of your retirement. Schedule a visit with us today to tour Riddle Village and find out where you’ll fit in. You can also call us at 610-891-3700 to learn more.