Gone are the days of simply sitting on the front porch and counting the days. Unless that’s what you want to do.

Today’s older adult population has the choice to participate in a number of enjoyable activities.

As people get older, they often find themselves spending more and more time at home alone. This isolation can lead to depression or other health problems.

Engaging in social activities may help you maintain your health. According to the National Institute on Aging, older people with an active lifestyle enjoy many health benefits.

Benefits of an Active Lifestyle

• Less likely to develop certain diseases
• Longer lifespan
• Happier and less depressed
• Better prepared to cope with loss
• Able to improve their thinking abilities

Activities to Consider

• Join a senior center of community center. Need more encouragement, check out this article on senior centers.
• Play cards with friends or family
• Go to a movie or sporting event
• Travel with a group of older adults or a retiree group
• Visit friends and family
• Join a group with shared interests
• Take a class and learn something new (cooking, art, computer, etc.)
• Join a book club, or start your own!
• Try a new exercise class like yoga or tai chi
• Volunteer with an organization that means something to you
• Organize a park clean-up through your local recreation center
• Get a part-time job

Being active is important, but so is finding the right balance. Everyone has a different amount of time they can or want to spend on social activities. Be careful not to take on too much at once. Start with just one or two activities. You can always add more if you have the time and energy!