Did you watch black-and-white TV as a kid? Witness the shrinking of a computer from the size of a room to a desktop? Play outside until the streetlights came on? If so, you may be part of the unique group we celebrate today, Aug. 21, National Senior Citizens Day.

As an older adult, whether you’re retired or working, you may find more time on your hands as you age. How you choose to fill it can make a major impact. In honor of National Senior Citizens Day, we are highlighting a few activities that can help you stay healthy, active and fulfilled.

Move for your health.

In a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), people aged 65+ answered questions about favorite activities they had participated in over the prior month.

Physical activities such as walking, jogging, gardening or playing sports were overwhelmingly popular, compared to sedentary activities such as watching TV.

The study’s authors say this is good news: Physical activity for older adults is one of the most powerful ways to prevent and ameliorate depression, heart disease and disability.

Do what you enjoy.

There’s more to consider than physical exercise. In a separate publication, the NIH defines an active lifestyle as one that includes personally meaningful activities that benefit your mind, spirit or body.

An active lifestyle helps your well-being and independence as you age and can lead to benefits such as:

• A lower likelihood of developing certain diseases, including dementia and some types of cancer.
• A longer lifespan.
• Better coping skills, since happy and healthy people tend to be resilient.

Connect with others.

As we age, it’s important to avoid social isolation, which can negatively impact health. Consider trying new restaurants with friends, joining groups of people who enjoy what you do (i.e., painting, birdwatching or walking clubs) or virtually connecting through video chats or playing cards online.

Give back.

Giving time and talent helps both the recipient and the volunteer. When you volunteer, you can help others while forging new relationships.

Making a meaningful contribution can also increase your feelings of self-worth and purpose. Consider volunteering at a hospital, serving meals to people in need or teaching personal skills such as photography or baking at a community center.

Never stop learning.

Learning something new can energize and inspire you. Visit local museums or libraries to broaden your knowledge of subjects you’re passionate about.

Plus, all state colleges and universities in Ohio offer people over age 60 the perfect opportunity for lifelong learning: attending some classes at no cost. Other Ohio colleges and universities may offer free or low-cost continuing education experiences for those over age 60. To learn how to participate, visit the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

Keep calm and carry on.

You’ve lived long enough to know that life can throw curveballs your way. Stress-relieving activities can have great health benefits. Consider reading a good book, practicing mindfulness or savoring the small joys in life, like a good cup of coffee or a sunset.

Remember, if you’ve marked at least 65 birthdays, you’ve adapted to major cultural changes in your lifetime, preparing you to age well. Try out some of these ideas to keep going strong, using your health and happiness as your guide.

Sources:
National Institutes of Health
Ohio Department of Higher Education