As a senior, it is especially important to maintain one’s mental and physical health. As you enter your 60’s, a whole new world of possibilities and opportunities arise that are designed to do just that. For some, retiring can mean the end of an academic or financial career. For others, it means the start of a new phase in their lives. Retiring means being able to fill your day with stimulating and emotionally engaging activities that are good for the soul, as well as the mind and body.
Whether you’re willing to dedicate yourself to one hour, three hours or even something more long-term, there’s many interesting and creative activities to do in retirement. Continue reading to get some retirement hobby ideas.
The importance of having hobbies after retirement
There are many health benefits associated with hobbies, such as:
- Stress reduction
- Stress management
- Supports the immune system
- May support weight management
- Improves social connections
- Enhances mood
- Improves mental functions
- Reduces blood pressure and improves heart health
- Reduces risks for mood disorders like depression
When choosing from our list of hobbies below, keep in mind that you should consider your health needs and fitness levels. Speak to your doctor before beginning any physical activity.
Creative activities to do in retirement
Many of these hobbies involve little or very little expense but they offer a large amount of joy and social engagement. Try one or try them all: you’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Hothouse and hobby garden
In addition to growing a lot of flora and produce for Australians to enjoy, hobby gardening offers physical and mental health benefits, as well as supports heart health and mood.
Billiards, snooker and pool
As challenging as it is fulfilling, playing billiards, snooker or pool gives retirees a sense of purpose. It also helps to release that competitive spirit – all in the name of fun, of course.
Swimming and water aerobics
Not only is swimming one of the best exercises for retirement but it can build endurance, muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness. Most importantly, there’s a very low chance of sustaining an injury. Or, you can apply for water aerobics lessons and exercise with a group of people.
Walking groups
It goes without saying that walking groups offer physical health benefits, such as weight management, cardiovascular health, and immune system function. You are sure to find a neighbourhood that features trails that are designed for different levels of fitness, such as walkers or joggers.
Trivia and bingo nights
A fun competition that really tests your memory, joining a trivia team is a great way to show off all those ‘useless facts’ you keep in your brain. Trivia nights allow you to work your brain and socialise with your peers.
While it’s largely a game of luck, bingo is an activity where skill has very little to do with the outcome. The playing field is levelled, and it’s all in the name of fun.
Paint
Taking an art class is a great way to pass the time. Not only does it reduce stress but it enhances dexterity and can promote self-confidence. There’s many mediums to explore, such as watercolour, oil and acrylic, portraiture, figure drawing and so much more.
Computer club
Stay up to date in the ever-changing world of technology and make new friends: there’s so much to enjoy about joining a computer club.
Library book clubs
Calling all bookworms: there are many library book clubs that are designed especially for seniors. You may find a book club that caters to readers of specific genres, like romance or historical fiction. When you join a book club, you’re engaging in social interaction and reducing stress.
Learn a foreign language
While it may require more dedication than other hobbies, learning a foreign language can give you access to a whole new world of music, art, literature and culture.
Find your hobby at Centennial Living
Retirement is a great time to learn new things to keep your mind sharp. At Centennial Living, we offer all our residents a huge selection of pastimes to get them on the path to a fun and fulfilling retirement. From trivia and bingo nights to hobby gardens, arts and crafts, walking groups and more, you’ll never be bored with our list of fun activities for retired men and women.
If you’d like to learn more about what we offer our seniors, please reach out to us to speak to a friendly member of our team.
