Why Getting Older Doesn’t Have to Mean Giving Up Your Lifestyle

Getting old is a fact of life. It’s a one way street. Many of us worry about ageing, thinking forward to a future of hip operations, bowls clubs, aches and pains and health complaints. It can be a bit daunting to think about, but did you know that getting older doesn’t necessarily mean you have to give up your leisurely lifestyle and all the things you enjoy doing? Let’s take a look at your options.

A Little Assistance

While stigmas may still linger from decades past, a variety of aged care providers are now providing a more holistic, proactive approach to creative aging. These providers allow individuals to live in a way that they are most comfortable with, whilst still offering support in areas of difficulty, such as shopping and cleaning.

Additionally, many aged care providers are beginning to offer programs targeted at improving the quality of life for those they provide care to through less traditional means. Programs can range from art therapy to pet therapy, with a focus on promoting social interactions and an active lifestyle.

Change Your Leisure Activities

While you may have to give up the base jumping and skydiving, getting older doesn’t mean that you have to automatically become a homebody. There are heaps of things that you can do with friends and family to keep yourself occupied. You could join a local lawn bowls club, which provides gentle exercise and a great social space or take up gardening.
Board games, cards and book clubs are another option to keep busy, social and our minds active or you could try volunteering with a charity or non-profit organisation, who always need some extra hands on deck.

Exercise

Is exercise an integral part of your lifestyle? It’s of course important for staying fit and healthy, but aging means that you might be restricted on doing the kinds of exercises you used to. . While you may have to give up power flow yoga and marathons, there are still heaps of options though.

Gentle yoga is one example, as is water aerobics because of the weightlessness being in the water provides, and walking is something relatively relaxing and active to take part in.

Social Connection

Did you know that socialising has a range of positive psychological impacts? Spending quality time together with friends, loved ones and families is good for you, and it’s a really fun way to spend some time.

As you age, it’s important to maintain these connections. Try scheduling regular catch ups with those close to you. Lunches, dinners, movie dates, trips out and about and other activities will keep you occupied and help you maintain your desired lifestyle.

Connection to Culture

Part of a modern lifestyle is being a consumer of culture. If you want to maintain and keep up with the times it’s important to follow news and events, read film and book reviews and attend art galleries and concerts. These are all low-impact activities that don’t require much energy. However, it can get a bit expensive, so ensure you have enough money tucked away to fund your interests.

To Conclude

To sum up, keep your body and mind active by changing your leisure and exercise activities to low impact pastimes, stay connected to friends and family and make sure you engage in your culture.