The Glow of Life; the Energy for Excitement

Getting old doesn't necessarily mean getting old if you know what I mean.  Let's not get old just yet!

M.N.Curry

                                                          

     Retired seniors can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle by incorporating various strategies. Here are some expert-backed tips to help them stay motivated and engaged:

1. Establish a Routine: Create a daily exercise regimen to maintain structure and regain control over your schedule. It doesn’t have to be intense—a brisk 30-minute walk, gentle yoga, or swimming laps can work wonders. Consistency is key!.

2. Find a Hobby You Love: Embrace any physical activity or hobby that brings you joy. Whether it’s dancing, golfing, gardening, or Tai Chi, these activities keep you both physically active and mentally engaged. 

   Learning new skills stimulates neural plasticity and reduces the risk of cognitive decline. This is an important suggestion.

3. Join a Team Sport: Participating in team sports keeps you active and provides built-in social connections. Social engagement improves mental health, reduces isolation, and may even lower the risk of dementia.  Working out in a group setting can motivate you to push harder.

4. Break Up Sedentary Time: If you sit for prolonged periods, set regular alarms to remind you to stand up and move around. Incorporate short walks or stretching sessions throughout the day to stay motivated for bigger activities.

5. Volunteer or Attend Local Events: Being part of community activities and events keeps you engaged and socially connected.

6. Pursue Hobbies and Interests: Whether it’s painting, playing a musical instrument, or cooking, engaging in activities you love adds purpose and fulfillment to your days.

7. Take Advantage of Senior Centers: Explore the services offered at senior centers, from fitness classes to social gatherings.

8. Stay Physically Balanced: Mix up your activities to enhance physical balance and strength. Consider walking groups, gym classes, or virtual communities to stay accountable and motivated.

   Remember, retirement is an opportunity to reinvest in your health and wellness without the time constraints of a nine-to-five job. Stay active, explore new interests, and enjoy this next chapter of life!

  In the old days, they used to call a person with low energy and uninteresting, a bump on a log, don't be that person. 

M.N.Curry

You're Never Too Old to Exercise

  Staying active is important for older adults to maintain their health and independence. Here are some tips to help them stay motivated to exercise:

 -Make it fun: Try to find ways to make exercise enjoyable and interesting. Some people like to walk on a treadmill at the gym, while others find that kind of activity boring. Be creative and try new activities to keep your interest alive. Do things you enjoy but pick up the pace. Do all four types of exercise — endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. The variety helps keep things interesting!

- Find ways to fit exercise into your day: You are more likely to exercise if it’s a convenient part of your day. Try exercising first thing in the morning or combine physical activity with a task that’s already part of your day, such as walking the dog or doing household chores.

- Make exercise a social activity: Many people agree that an “exercise buddy” keeps them going. Take a walk during lunch with coworkers or try a dance class — salsa, tango, square dancing — it’s up to you. Use family gatherings as a time to play team sports or do outdoor activities.

- Keep track of your exercise progress: The best way to stay motivated is to measure and celebrate your successes. Make an exercise and physical activity plan that works for you and track your daily physical activity. Find new ways to increase your physical activity and keep track of your monthly progress to see improvement.  If you need any inspiration, google Dick Van Dyke who as of now is 97 years old and has some good advice for you to stay active.

Stay Healthy

M.N.Curry