Stay Engaged
 Most people will spend up to 1/3 of their life in retirement, depending on the age at which they choose to stop working full-time. Staying engaged in retirement is more important than ever and research has even shown that it can result in better health and a prolonged life. Some of the ways satisfied retirees stay engaged after retirement are through volunteering, part time work, education, and care giving.
Volunteer
Studies show that older adults who volunteer live longer and have better physical and mental health than those who don’t volunteer. Volunteering offers the opportunity to get involved in one’s community while continuing to stay active. Interested? Think of something you have always wanted to do but didn’t have the time like teaching children to read or working with your hands. Or, do you just want to give back to your community? There are many organizations that serve as resource centers that can help you find the best volunteer opportunity for you. Here are just a couple examples:
 Part-time Employment
Older workers report that they enjoy going to work. Once you retire you might quit your job and later decide you want to go back to work. Although it takes someone over 50 longer to find a job than a younger worker, you can make your age work for you. Many employers look for older workers to fill openings within their organizations and have a great appreciation for their skills and talents. In addition to providing a bit of additional income to supplement retirement savings and Social Security, part-time work during retirement also offers retirees an opportunity for social interaction and a chance to do something productive. If you are interested in finding a workplace that is friendly to older workers, AARP has a number of resources to help:
Also, check out these resources for other fun and unique job opportunities:
Further Your Education
 If you hold lifelong education in high esteem, consider returning to college to keep your mind in tip-top shape. College/university linked retirement communities are growing in popularity and you can find them all over the country, just check with your local institution of higher learning to find out about communities in your area.
Also, many colleges, universities, and community colleges offer free or greatly reduced tuition to retirees; find a college or university near you to see what they have to offer.
If you prefer an exciting but informal environment, elderhostel.org might have the perfect opportunity for you through their unique learning adventures. Retirees who enjoy being online can take short, online courses through the University of the Third Age, provide a flexible environment for people who like the freedom to study where and when they choose.
And for retirees who have always wanted to learn to play that musical instrument, a New Horizons Band might be just the thing. Active participation in music fills important needs for adults - the need for challenging intellectual activity, the need to be a contributing member of a group, and the need to have exciting events in the future. For many people, music can serve these vital needs better than anything else.
Care giving
Your unique care-giving situation may require a lot or a little of your time and attention, but remember, you must also make time for yourself. In retirement, your personal satisfaction depends on pursuing activities that make you happy, as well as meeting the needs of your loved ones. Where possible, involve your loved ones in the activities you enjoy. Everyone wants to be the best grandparent possible, so go for a walk on the beach with your grandkids or take an art class at a community center together.
If your care situation involves an aged loved one, talk with him or her about participating in activities at a local senior center periodically. This will give you some time to yourself, and also provide your loved one with the opportunity to spend time with his or her peers. If your loved one is home bound and finances permit, consider bringing in a home health worker periodically so you can have some time for yourself.
Top
E-mail this page to a friend |
Stay Healthy
Consider Housing Options
