The senior years can be some of the best ever with fewer responsibilities, more time, and more flexibility. With the kids out of the house or at least able to fend for themselves and retirement (or counting down the work days), there are many options for a life makeover.
Check Local Senior Resources
Most communities have some sort of senior services department or center. Not only do these centers offer assistance with basic needs like transportation and filing taxes, most senior centers schedule activities for adults in their 50s and up. Activities can range from monthly dances and breakfast chat groups to day trips and even overseas adventures.
National Programs for Older Adults
Some senior programs have been so popular that they are national (or even international) in scope. Joining key senior groups means more political power and an opportunity to expand senior social circles.
Some groups to consider are:
- AARP (known previously as American Association of Retired Persons) – This non-profit organization with 40 million members is one of the largest organized groups in the United States. The group provides information for seniors as well as lobbying for the interests of seniors.
- Exploritas (previously known as Elderhostel) – An international program to promote educational travel for senior citizens, Exploritas was modeled after the youth hostels in Europe.
- YMCA – Most YMCAs offer senior discount memberships and programs specific to seniors. The YMCA is a great social outlet as well as providing terrific senior exercise opportunities from walking the track to swimming.
- Red Hat Society – Women 50 and up (or under – Pink Hatters) kick up their heels and have fun as a part of this social group known for wearing purple clothing and (of course) red hats.
Travel Fun for Senior Citizens
The senior years are a great time to travel. Some seniors enjoy group travel through travel agencies or mission trips with churches while others prefer to make their own plans. Regardless, getting out and seeing new places and faces can be loads of fun. Short road trips close home, camping across the nation, an exotic cruise or that dream overseas trip can make the senior years the best years of all.
New Hobbies and Activities for Seniors
People often lament never having been able to do or learn something earlier. It’s never too late to learn a new skill. Whether it is playing the piano, woodworking, quilting or learning a second language, there is no better time than today to start.
Part-Time Jobs and Volunteer Work for Older People
Some seniors really miss the work world, even seniors who could not wait to retire. The structure of a job and the camaraderie can be hard for some seniors to recreate with only social activities.
Companies are finding that seniors often make the best part-time employees, and organizations are always looking for extra help. If a schedule and water cooler friendships are valuable, then look around for a flexible way to contribute and stay active and busy.
The Senior Years Can be the Best and Most Active
There are lots of options for senior citizens from local programs to national and international programs. Many seniors enjoy travel during the golden years while others finally have the chance to engage in a hobby. Still others find that part-time jobs and volunteer opportunities fill a gap. Regardless of the road traveled, there are unlimited activities for seniors looking to live life to the fullest.
Cyndi Allison - Southern born and fed, Cyndi Allison is a college lecturer and newspaper advisor as well as being a freelance writer. She writes on ...
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