How Seniors Can “Engage at Every Age”

from A.G. Rhodes Health & Rehab

May is “Older Americans Month,” a nationwide celebration of what older Americans contribute to society. Use this year’s theme, “Engage at Every Age,” as an opportunity to get more involved in your community.

Share Knowledge With Kids

Kids are sponges, absorbing everything that’s thrown their way. Give children a peek into your world by sharing personal stories with them. This could involve connecting with your grandchild, reading to local children at a library or allowing yourself to be interviewed for a student’s project. You will come away with a positivity boost, and they will gain an alternative perspective on the world.

Volunteer for a Good Cause

People of all ages and abilities can volunteer. Revisit a cause from your younger years, or take on a new cause you have always been passionate about. Some ideas include writing letters or sending care packages to military personnel, knitting clothes for babies, picking up litter in the local area, planting a community garden, serving as a tour guide, tutoring underprivileged youth or helping at an animal shelter.

Create a Club

No matter how niche your interests are, someone else likely shares your passions. Center your club around a hobby like gardening, reading, cinema or theatre and invite everyone in your local community to join. Even better, you can make your club intergenerational! Schedule special events like harvests, author visits, movie screenings or trips to theatre shows for a nice break from routine.

Get Active

Active seniors tend to be happier and healthier overall. Even if you have arthritis, a low-impact exercise like swimming, yoga or tai-chi can help you stretch and strengthen your muscles without putting stress on your joints. If you like to move at a faster pace, consider joining a walking or biking group in the community. Keep your eyes peeled for charity walks, races and marathons in your area.

Take Up Tech

Did you know that 34 percent of seniors 65 and older use social media, 42 percent own a smartphone and 67 percent go online? The internet can connect you with family, friends and even people thousands of miles away. Plus, older voices are desperately needed in the online sphere, which tends to be dominated by the young. If you’re nervous or easily frustrated when it comes to technology, try taking a class at the library or tech store.

Attend a Class

You are never too old to learn. Many local community centers offer low-commitment classes at reduced prices if you are just looking to dip your toe into a new subject area. Or, if you want to mix things up, you can attend college or university and earn a degree. There are many scholarships out there for so-called “non-traditional students,” so take a look into those opportunities if you’re interested.

Try a Part-Time Job

After retiring, many seniors find themselves yearning for the structure and socialization that work provides. If you miss your industry or want to try something new altogether, start searching for low-stress part-time, seasonal or temp jobs. Retail and customer service are always good options, but you can also try something else, like being a driver, working for a nonprofit, doing direct sales, bookkeeping or freelancing.

Join a Community

Life becomes much more fulfilling when you have companions to share it with. At A.G. Rhodes Health & Rehab, our friendly care team provides long-term care, short-term recovery and inpatient and outpatient therapy and rehabilitation for seniors. We care deeply for our community and foster social connection with regularly scheduled events and activities. Call us at (877) 918-6413 for more information.