Helping Your Senior Parent Adjust to Life in Retirement
While retirement is an exciting time, the transition can still feel daunting for older adults. After all, leaving the workforce doesn’t just mean a shift in their daily routine; it has a significant emotional impact on seniors.
Tips for Supporting Your Senior Loved One
As their family member, you naturally want to help your parent adjust to this new chapter of their life. If you’re unsure where to start, here are a few strategies to help guide your senior loved one through life after retirement.
Help Them Find a New Purpose
For many people, work provides a sense of meaning and identity. Your parent may struggle to feel fulfilled now that they’re no longer heading to an office every day. You can suggest productive and enjoyable activities, such as volunteering for a favorite charity, traveling to a new city, or pursuing hobbies. The Chilson Senior Center offers a variety of programs for seniors, including dance, book clubs, and day trips to area attractions. Visiting Angels also has a list of other senior resources in the Loveland area.
Encourage Lifelong Learning
In addition to finding enriching activities to participate in, learning something new is a great way for your parent to continue to set achievable goals. Maybe they’ve always wanted to learn a foreign language or how to play an instrument. Help them find a class to sign up for now that they have the free time for these pursuits.
Prioritize Health and Wellness
It’s crucial that seniors focus on their physical and mental well-being during retirement. Exercise can boost their mood, prevent cognitive decline, and help them stay healthy for years to come. Engage in physical activity with your mom or dad, whether it's a yoga class at a local fitness center or a hike at Prairie Ridge Natural Area. Additionally, you should encourage your parents to prepare healthy meals with plenty of brain-boosting vitamins and minerals that help ward off disease.
Set up a Routine
The absence of structure that comes with retirement can be challenging for seniors who are used to meetings and a packed agenda. According to studies, routines decrease stress and anxiety levels for older adults and provide them with an overall sense of comfort. Help your parent set up a loose schedule that includes socializing, brain stimulating activities, and regular meal times.
Provide Emotional Support
Oftentimes, the best thing you can do for your loved one is be there. Let them know you’re available to chat, discuss future plans, or simply give a listening ear throughout this life transition.
Visiting Angels Loveland Can Help Retirees
If your senior loved one could use additional support during their retirement, Visiting Angels Loveland is here for them with flexible home care service options. Our experienced and friendly caregivers can lend a helping hand with transportation to classes and recreation, meaningful companionship, healthy meal prep, and more.
To set up a free initial consultation, fill out our contact form or give us a call at 970-292-5668.