According to Aperion Care, the average retirement age is 63 years old. At that age, there is still plenty of time and opportunities to stay active once you’ve finished working. The world is your oyster once you have left the workforce for good and the engagements you can partake in are seemingly endless. They say the best things in life are free, and these retirement-friendly activities offer great health benefits, and they are easy on your bank account. So, here are some free activities you can do to stay busy after retirement.
All you need is a computer and a ZIP code, and you will be able to find a local book club. You can even start your own by going to ReadersCircle.org. Book clubs are a great way to learn and relax as you read while also making new friends to discuss the books with. Plus, according to a study in 2016 in Social Science and Medicine, cuddling up with a book every day can even increase your lifespan.
It’s never too late to get in shape, and with the all the free time you will have, retirement sounds like the perfect opportunity for this. According to the National Institute on Aging, you should be adding 10 minutes to your daily walk, or gradually adding reps to your weightlifting routine and then growing from there. You can also participate in low-impact exercises like water aerobics or tai chi, and these can increase your endurance, balance, flexibility, and strength.
Spend Time With The Grandchildren
Connecting with your grandchildren will be a great and fun way to stay busy. Social psychologist Susan Newman told U.S News and World Report, “if kids are having fun, you’re going to feel good as a grandparent.” You can take them out for a nice fishing trip at the park which will surely put them in a great mood.
The National Mentoring Partnership revealed that one in three young people grow up without a mentor whether it be from a program, friendship or family member. This is something you can fix by simply giving back some of your time. You have amassed a wealth of knowledge throughout your years, and this will be the perfect opportunity to help shape the younger generation. You will also have the chance to grow as you learn about a completely different life experience. You can take a look at Mentoring.org if you want a list of the NMP affiliates across the country.