By Dr. Alissia Valentinis, MD, CCFP, FCFP, National Home Doctor Medical Director
By staying social, active and healthy you can make the most of your retirement.
It's come that time of life when you can finally take off work, kick back, and enjoy your retirement years. So now what?
Socialize
The best way to stay positive is to socialize, so it's time to make new friends and engage in more social activities. Get out there and meet and interact with new people on a regular basis or hang out with your current friends. Spend time with family when you can and engage with younger people as well as those your age.
Sharpen your mind
If you spend all day watching TV and napping, you're going to get old fast! It's time to sharpen your mind with books, puzzles, hobbies, and projects, as that will keep you young and your brain active.
Find your purpose
Now that you're no longer working, what do you want to do with your life? Do you want to start writing that novel you've put off for years, volunteer at a local or international charity, or develop a new skill? If you want to travel, and you’re able to, why not go visit the places you’ve always wanted? Don't let ennui drag you down but find something to do with yourself and throw your energy into it.
Plan with your partner
Remember, if you have a partner, there are two of you enjoying the retired life now. Your spouse or partner is going to want to have a say in what the two of your do, so spend time talking and planning your retired life together.
Consider working
Full retirement can be expensive, but what if you could still earn a living doing what you love? Partial retirement will allow you to work a few hours every week, keep that income flowing, and will give you something to do with your time.
Exercise every day
This is the most important part of your retired life! If you don't exercise daily, your body will start to age more quickly. You'll lose bone density, muscle mass, and cardiovascular endurance, which will lead to fatigue and a greater risk of disease. You've got the time to devote to staying active, so take advantage of your retirement to get in the best shape of your life!
Keep yourself positive
You have to check your mood and emotional state of being regularly. Depression can set in and sap your energy and enthusiasm, a very common thing among the retired. If you need help staying positive, consider talking with a psychologist or therapist. Do what makes you happy, and make a conscious effort to find the good, positive things in your life.
Do what you want
Figure out what you want to do with your retired life, and DO IT! Celebrate your new found freedom after decades of work. Enjoy it!
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