Retirement can be a magical time for seniors. As the daily emphasis on the “must-do’s” lessens in retirement, new space for the “can-do’s” emerges in its place. With more time available in the day, a whole new world can open up providing opportunities to create joy and a greater sense of fulfillment in everyday life. Enjoying life is a huge factor when it comes to healthy aging. Research from University College in London, England revealed that happy seniors are usually more fit and robust. Here, we share how older adults can help achieve happiness in everyday life.
Include exercise in your routine
Physical well-being and exercise is a great place to start towards achieving happiness. It can make us feel better and lift our spirits. This is possible through the production of endorphins, hormones and chemicals which act on the nervous system and makes us feel good. This feeling is often referred to as a runner’s high. A regular exercise routine, even a simple, moderate one, can help physically and cognitively – and it’s a whole lot easier to feel happy when you feel healthy.
According to the CDC, physical activity benefits older adults in the following ways :
It’s never too late to start an exercise program and benefit from its effectiveness in fighting some chronic diseases. Studies by the School of Human Kinetics, University of British Columbia, and the Healthy Heart Program, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC confirm that “…there is irrefutable evidence of the effectiveness of regular physical activity in the primary and secondary prevention of several chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, obesity, depression and osteoporosis) and premature death.”
Spend time with family, friends, and the community
A 2011 poll conducted by Gallup showed that seniors who stay social are happier, less likely to become worried or stressed, and enjoy life overall. Having people to spend time with helps us stay connected and happy. Physical interactions are much more powerful compared to emails or text messages. But when you cannot connect in-person, connecting virtually has benefits. So try to take to the opportunity to interact with someone every day, or whenever possible.
If friends move away or pass on, take the time to make new friends. Become more active in the community, join groups that interest you, or explore places where you can meet like-minded people who share the same values and interests. When researching senior living options, ask if the community welcomes guests to participate and enjoy the social programs, dining, events, and entertainment with the residents.
Laugh as much as possible
One of the best things in the world is laughter. It not only brings people closer together, but it also lowers cortisol, which is known as the stress hormone. According to this 2014 study conducted by Loma Linda University in Southern California, seniors who spent 20 minutes watching funny videos experienced an improvement in their memory. The study also suggested that “humor reduces stress hormones, lowers your blood pressure, and increases your mood state.” So be sure to laugh a lot and aloud because laughter truly is the best medicine.
We live in a fast-paced culture. Once adulthood takes hold, it’s off to the races. In retirement, we’re provided an opportunity to slow down and come back to ourselves a bit. What do you want your new normal to look like? What kinds of joy and activity would you like to fill it with? Exercising, staying connected, and laughing out loud are all easy to do and have tremendous health benefits, and are an excellent steppingstone to a more rewarding, fulfilled life.
