By Karen Weeks
Have you ever wondered why some folks refer to retirement as their “golden years”? If so, then you should know that your senior years are full of golden opportunities to take control of your health and live your best life yet! All you need to do so are a few changes to your everyday habits and lifestyle routines, and these simple steps could be your best bet for maintaining a sense of independence and promoting an enhanced quality of life in retirement.
Consider Moving to Independent Living
Do you find yourself looking for more out of your neighborhood? Well, then you should know that senior living options have grown to include more than just assisted living facilities and retirement homes. These days, more seniors and Baby Boomers are increasing their quality of life by transitioning into independent senior living communities where they will have more access to education and social opportunities. This may be a good choice for you if you are looking to enhance your daily quality of life, but do not need help with daily care activities. More widely known as Activities of Daily Living, these routines include preparing meals, maintaining personal hygiene, and moving around the home. If you do want to explore your local options for independent living communities, A Place for Mom is a good place to start but you should also consider scheduling tours with your top independent living choices. As you contact each community, also be sure to confirm prices. The average monthly cost for independent living in Nashville is between $1,500 and $6,695 but actual costs for each community may be different.
Budget More Time and Money for Travel
Travel is good for the soul, but did you know that travel can also promote good mental health? Adults who travel frequently, including senior citizens, tend to be less stressed by daily challenges, more active in daily life, and more connected to others around them. In addition to these mood-boosting benefits, travel can also keep you physically active in your golden years, especially if you look for walking tours and other ways to sneak exercise into your vacation plans. Another tip for keeping your travels healthy is to rent a vacation home that is equipped with a well-appointed kitchen. With a kitchen, you are more likely to cook healthy meals during your trip, which will keep you looking and feeling your best. If you’re concerned about your budget, preparing your own meals on trips can also help you avoid the added expense of dining out at restaurants three times or more each day. Another hack for keeping costs low while you travel during your golden years include searching for senior discounts before planning a trip.
Search for Simple Ways to Stay Healthy
Looking for ways to eat clean and exercise on vacation can enhance and improve your health during retirement but the habits implement in your daily life can have an even bigger impact on your well-being. Thankfully, those habits do not have to involve a lot of effort and hard work but they do require some commitment on your behalf to practice them each day. For example, several studies have shown that a daily meditation routine can reduce stress and lead to more feelings of contentment for adults. You can include this happiness-boosting habit in your daily routine by rewarding yourself for each session completed and perhaps using a meditation app to set reminders and ease into new mindfulness routines. An even more basic way to maintain your independence and health as you age is to exercise regularly. Seniors should aim to get a minimum of 150 minutes of physical activity each week and breaking this into 15 to 30 minute daily workouts can make this goal more attainable. With weekly walks, bike rides, and balance moves, you can prevent chronic disease, boost your brain, and improve your golden years.
Staying healthy during your senior years doesn’t have to be a struggle! By following the tips outlined above, you can enjoy your retirement is healthy and exciting!
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