Healthy Aging - An Important Goal
Healthy aging has several key components: Good physical health; possession of basic resources (housing, food); good social network; sense of purpose; and engaging in activities such as volunteering, working, and hobbies or interests.
Make a list called 100 Things I Want To Do (before I die…). The list helps to uncover past dreams, wishes and activities or interests you haven't pursued in a while. Ignore the impulse to disregard certain activities because of your age: “I always wanted to skydive (act/learn the cello), but now I’m too old.”
Some questions to ask yourself: What if age weren’t a factor or I was 20 years old? What if I wasn't afraid of seeming foolish? What if I had the resources and energy to make my dreams come true? The point is to open up possibilities, even ones that seem “too young.” Movies need older extras. Skydiving can be done at any age with good health. Why not get a college degree now? It may take a little longer to learn that musical instrument, but one thing you have now is time. Forget about what is “expected” of older people, and follow your heart’s desire.
Retirement need not be viewed as the end. It should be anticipated as the beginning…of the time of your life.
Sometimes a new beginning also means changing your current living arrangements. It can mean downsizing, moving in with other family members or buying that home or condo that won't be so much work for you. You can then enjoy some of the activities we talked about above. One of my designations is SRES or Senior Real Estate Specialist. I have several resources available that can help you in that transition. Email me your address and I can send you the booklet "Moving On, A Guide to Housing-Related Resources Tailored to Seniors and their Families."