Along with staying physically active, the most important thing you can do to maintain or improve your quality of life as you age is to stay involved in relationships with other people. This is crucial to both your physical health and your emotional well-being.
Many older people tend to withdraw from their social networks and the activities they once enjoyed, because of failing health, a decline in energy, hearing loss, or transportation problems. But staying active and involved in relationships with others...
- increases mental alertness
- improves emotional well-being
- maintains a network of support
- helps you stay physically healthier
Yes, as you get older it takes more effort and more planning to stay engaged in life, but the rewards are great.
So Where To Begin?
One of the gifts of being older is that you have more time to spend developing relationships and doing the things that bring you pleasure. Make a list of the activities you currently enjoy, as well as interests you've always wanted to pursue. Do you like to play cards, do needlework, or arrange flowers? Are you a birdwatcher or a fly fisherman or a bowler? Do you enjoy cooking, or art, or going to the theater? Have you always wanted to learn to ballroom dance, to quilt, to do woodworking, carpentry, or remodeling projects?
To help translate your interests into activities with other people, check into the opportunities offered by your local senior center, community colleges, parks and recreation department, church, synagogue or other faith community, and your friends, neighbors and acquaintances.
It's Easier with a Friend
Friendships are important at any age, but are crucial as we grow older, especially when family members are not close by. To develop and maintain friendships takes commitment and work, but as you know, the rewards of having a good friend are priceless. If you really want to get involved in something new, convince a friend to be your buddy and do it with you. That way you'll know at least one person where you are going and who knows? Maybe your friend needs a push to get out of the house as much as you do!
Volunteering: A Special Kind of Involvement
As you think about creating a life that is full of meaningful interaction with other people, consider the possibility of becoming a volunteer. The need has never been greater in all communities, and volunteering is a great way to meet new friends. Many worthy organizations schools, hospitals, museums, social service agencies rely upon volunteers. Fortunately, many retirees are answering the call, serving their communities, sharing their gifts, and helping others.
Do you have a special skill you can share? Can your work experience translate into volunteer activity? Do you have specialized knowledge or expertise? Volunteering in your area of expertise is a way to keep your skills sharp and your mind challenged.
Many organizations in your community welcome volunteers and provide training for committed individuals:
- schools
- hospitals
- community agencies (such as United Way, your senior center or public library)
- the parks and recreation department
- religious organizations
- cultural groups (museums, theaters, music groups)
See Links You Can Use in this issue of Seniors Digest for more suggestions.
Most volunteers agree that they receive more from volunteering than they give. It remains one of the best ways to stay active and connected to others, working together towards the common good.
There are so many ways to stay connected to the world around you, to express yourself, expand your world view, make a significant difference in someone else's life. All of these activities add depth and meaning to life; they keep your mind agile and your body moving. They keep your emotions from growing rusty with disuse, and let you know that who you are in the world is of value.
Photo credit: Mandred G. Hanke
