Many people spend their lives dreaming about retirement and all the freedom it will afford them. However, they may not realize that, outside the workplace, it takes effort to stay engaged.
Lack of exposure is a common problem for retirees, Sarah Peck, outpatient mental health therapist at Ellie Mental Health in Beachwood, said. The bulk of her patients are approaching retirement or are already retired.
“A lot of people will say they are looking forward to doing nothing,” she said. “Please don’t do that.”
High-quality social interactions are essential for mental and physical well-being, quality of life and longevity, according to the World Health Organization.
“One of the biggest social determinants of health in terms of longevity is the amount of your social exposure or lack thereof,” Peck said. “If the circle that you’re accustomed to keeps shrinking, such that you’re only in touch with a spouse or partner, your kids or your family,” it impacts your health.
There are numerous ways to create a social circle and stay involved well into retirement, Katie Jenkins, executive director of NAMI Greater Cleveland, said. NAMI provides services for mental illness.
“Retirement can feel like a loss of identity for some, but it’s also a powerful opportunity to redefine their purpose,” Jenkins said.
Volunteer for nonprofits that focus on your personal interests, attend workshops or community classes to practice lifelong learning, and discover or rediscover hobbies and passions, Jenkins said.
Join peer groups that share your hobbies. Encourage curiosity by learning something new, such as gardening, writing, or learning a new language, she said.
“Reflect and reconnect. Think back to past interests or childhood joys. What used to make you feel alive? Revisit those activities with fresh eyes,” Jenkins added.
The great thing about retirement is that you don’t have to confine socializing to evenings and weekends, Peck said. Take a drive to Amish country, schedule lunches or visit the casino, she advised.
If you are having a hard time identifying activities that you will enjoy, start by looking at the many activities local senior or recreation centers provide, Peck said. If you love to cook, take a cooking class. Did you always want to travel to Iceland, explore Europe or go on a safari? Do it.
“Retirement is the time to try new things,” she said. “Take advantage of your good health.”
Loneliness and isolationism are being recognized by local governments, which are addressing the issue by creating more age-friendly communities, according to the World Health Organization. For example, cities are improving access to transportation, information and technology for all ages.
It’s also helpful to befriend people of different generations and to expose yourself to different kinds of people. Perhaps you make friends at the dog park, in a bowling league and work with children, Peck said.
Incorporate your new activities into your daily rituals and routines, Jenkins suggested.
“Establishing simple routines like morning walks, journaling, or scheduled calls with loved ones can provide structure and emotional stability,” she added.
For a retiree struggling with their new normal, regularly attending groups focused on shared experiences – like aging, grief or wellness – can foster meaningful relationships and emotional resilience, Jenkins said.
Shannon Mortland is a freelance journalist.
