Adjusting to Retirement
Although most retirees have planned and looked forward to the day that they will retire, many find that it is a bit difficult to adjust to their new freedom. Many mental health professionals recommend spending time to come up with a realistic goal plan for the immediate days after the last day spent at work. It can help immensely to have a schedule at first.
Most retirees plan to engage in their interests and hobbies during their golden years. Those without many outside activities will usually want to find some to occupy all that free time. Every retiree is different, and so it is not surprising that each senior will have different interests and plans for their retirement.
Read on for our 150 ideas for what you can do in retirement to help get you started.
Some Common Retirement Dreams to Consider
1. Travel
Many retirees decide to travel to various destinations. This can be overseas to another country (you could even retire there, see our list of the best country to retire in to learn more) or just nearby within the state where they reside. Some have specific locales that they are drawn to.
These include sunny waterside locations with water as clear as glass and pristine sandy beaches. Other seniors prefer the clean and fresh air of the mountains where it is cooler.
2. Some Retirees Want to Do Something Adventurous like Skydiving or Climbing a Tall Mountain
Not every senior has the same bucket list items, and some may find that taking a fishing charter boat cruise to catch deep sea fish is more than adventurous for their tastes. Others are drawn to certain places because they wish to see a famous historic landmark like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, or Great Ben in England.
3. Finding More Time to Pursue Their Favorite Hobbies and Interests
Just about every senior nearing retirement age has their own fond dreams of finally having the necessary free time to pursue their favorite hobbies.
This could be golfing on lush green golf courses, taking their boat out on their favorite river, lake or ocean spot or having time to create beautiful, handcrafted furniture and home interior decorative items if they love carpentry and woodworking.
4. Cooking or Eating at Their Favorite Dining Venues
5. Spending More Time with Their Loved Ones and Friends
6. Many Retired Couples and Individuals Plan to Move After Retirement
7. Some Retirees Plan to Embark on a Second Career Doing Something Else
8. Most Retired Individuals Plan to Upgrade or Improve Their Homes or Will Downsize
9. Catching Up with Old Friends and Family Members Is Usually Important to Retirees
10. Many Seniors Plan to Give Back to Their Beloved Community
Things Women Can Do After Retirement
11. Spend More Time Taking Care of Yourself
12. Take Up a New Hobby or Interest
13. Finally Clean the Clutter from Your Home
It is astonishing how much the average family collects through the decades. Many retirees find that all that clutter tends to bring down their mood and can quickly become overwhelming.
Clearing out the clutter from your home is a terrific activity that can help seniors adjust to their new lifestyle and find more space for doing and storing the things that mean the most to them now.
14. Redesign Your Interior Spaces
15. Reconnect with Old Friends and Get to Know Your Neighbors More
Over time, many retirees have lost touch with old friends and perhaps some family members that they were once very close to. Retirement gives people the opportunity to reconnect with these individuals while also meeting new people who may share some mutual interests.
16. Plan Breaks for Yourself if You Are a Family Caretaker
Many women also become family caretakers to their husband, parent or other family member. Women are also more likely to live longer than men. Men too can also be caregivers. It is important for these individuals to make a family plan for care sooner than later.
Having some downtime to take a minute to relax and get other necessary chores completed is essential for better mental health and well-being.
17. Consider Writing or Journal Your Thoughts
18. Stay Active & Plan Fun Outdoor Excursions
19. Volunteer at Your Church or in Your Community
20. Travel & Get to Know Your Own Geographical Area Attractions
Things Men Can Do After Retirement
21. Spend More Time Doing Lawncare & Home Improvement Projects
22. Find New Hobbies like Woodworking, Metal Work, Gardening or Drawing
23. Spend More Time Golfing, Hunting, Fishing or Doing Other Activities
24. Indulge in Your Love of Fixing Up Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles or Boats
25. Do Some of Your Top Bucket List Must-Dos
26. Stay Connected with Friends or Make New Ones
Men tend to make friends with their co-workers. It is smart to plan ahead to stay connected with these individuals who have been part of your life for such a long time. It is also a good idea to stay social and make the effort to join in with others in your neighborhood and town through various social clubs, churches and other places in order to make new friends.
27. Plan a Vacation or Road Trip to a New Location
28. Continue or Begin a Collection of Something That Interests You
29. Plan to Play Sports with Friends, Family Members or Join a Local Team
30. Build Your Much Longed for Man Cave
Men often find that they are overwhelmed with staying home after being used to a workplace for so long. Having your own space to pursue interests that the rest of the family is not part of can make retirement more enjoyable.
Take a Sabbatical Leave or Find a Part-Time Job
Some individuals nearing retirement age have the option to take a sabbatical leave rather than go straight into retirement fulltime. Then, they may wish to return to their job with the option of cutting back their hours. Others will decide to find a part time job instead to pass the time and earn a bit of spending money.
31. Consider Working Less Using Your Work Talents
There are some careers that make it possible for those of retirement age to work less using the talents learned and honed at work. This could be moving to a consultant type position or a work-from-home status. Some retirees decide to enter a mentorship or teaching position.
32. Find a Part-Time Job That Interests You
Some job ideas include:
- Babysitting
- Dog walking
- House sitting
- Errand running
- Becoming a home companion
Many retail and food service industries hire seasonal workers for the holiday season. Tourist attraction venues often need a seasonal workforce that may appeal to retirees.
34. Get a Summer Job at a Nearby Park or Other Venue
35. Pursue Your Love of the Arts by Creating Art to Sell
36. Consider Making Your Hobbies a New Retirement Career
37. Become an Event or Party Planner
Why not starting with organizing retirement parties for your old coworkers?
38. Make Reading Stories Your New Sideline Job
Some retirees make a career out of becoming a professional storyteller at family birthday parties, summer camps, church retreats and other places and circumstances. Tales and legends of the surrounding geographical location and culture make wonderful story topic ideas.
39. Open a Bed & Breakfast, Rent Out a Room or a Vacation Place for Extra Cash
40. Try Being a Secret Shopper or Sell Things from Home or Online
Go Back to School or Learn Something New
41. Take a Class on Creative Writing or Poetry at a Local College
42. Learn a New Skill or Sign Up for Dance Lessons
43. Take Flying Lessons & Become a Pilot
44. Take Advantage of Free or Affordable Classes at a Fitness Center or Gym
45. Learn How to Ride a Horse at a Nearby Stable with Equestrian Riding Lessons
46. Join a Local Bridge, Poker or Other Card Club or Group
47. Learn About Different Wines or Specialty Brews
48. Investigate Learning Opportunities at Your Local Senior Center
49. Learn a New Language
50. Take Marksmanship Classes at a Local Club or Shooting Range
A Few Fun Hobbies to Pursue Following Retirement
51. Gardening or Landscaping
52. Creative Arts like Drawing, Painting, Pottery or Gourmet Cooking
53. Sew or Make Crafts to Sell at Craft Fairs or Other Event
54. Read More & Find or Host a Book Club
55. Learn About & Collect Antiques
56. Take Up Birdwatching & Go to a Nearby Wildlife Sanctuary or Nature Park
57. Take a Class on Photography & Capture Photos for Lasting Memories
58. Learn to Play a New Instrument or Take Singing Lessons
59. Get Involved in a Community Theater Group or Other Performance Option
60. Research Your Family Line Through Genealogy Sites
Change Your Scenery
61. Consider Spending More Time in Another Locale Each Year Like a Cottage or Mountain Retreat
62. Go Camping or Take Road Trips on a Regular Basis
63. Take Advantage of Senior Bus Trips to City Shows & Special Events
64. Many Churches Have Planned Outings That Are Ideal for Retirees
65. Spend Time at a Nearby Park, Camping Site or B&B for a Change of Scenery
66. Take Day Trips to Nearby Tourist Destinations or Other Local Attractions
67. Enjoy Your Area’s Nature Spots Like Ski Lodges, Beaches or National Forests
68. Attend Your Town’s Outdoor Festivals like Musical Concerts, Outdoor Films or Street Fairs
69. Visit Friends & Family in Distant Places or Swap Houses with Someone Living Out of Town
70. Attend a Summer or Weekend Camp or Workshop
Get More Involved with Your Community
71. Volunteer with a Local Charity Organization
72. Raise Money for Worthwhile Causes
73. Help at a Community Food Bank, Women’s Shelter or Other Community Venue
74. Make or Deliver Meals, Cards or Care Packages to Shut-Ins, Military Servicemen or Others Who Need Assistance
75. Volunteer at a Local Hospital, Senior Center or Nursing Home
76. Organize Local Talent with Others to Perform at Area Care Places
76. Host a Community Fundraiser for a Fire or Police Department
77. Organize a Clothing, Food or Holiday Toy Drive to Benefit Needy Community Members
78. Join Local Clean-Up Events or Organize Your Own
79. Volunteer Your Time or Donate at a Community Animal Shelter, Sanctuary or Zoo
80. Get Involved with Fundraising or Volunteering for Distant Charity Groups and Hospitals
Downsize Your Home or Complete Those Desired Home Improvement Projects
81. Build a Closed-In Porch or Add a Deck to Increase Light & Give Nature Views
82. Finish Your Home’s Attic, Basement or Garage
83. Upgrade Your Kitchen and Baths
84. Move to a Smaller Home or a Retirement Community
85. Create the Outdoor Spaces of Your Dreams
86. Redo Your Patio and Consider Adding Water or Fire Features
87. Enjoy Hosting Outdoor BBQ’s During Warmer Weather
88. Create a Cozy Space for Grandkids & Other Overnight Guests
89. Add More Outdoor Lighting for Safety and for Increased Beauty
90. Consider Installing Solar Panels and Energy-Efficient Windows or Doors
Consider Spending More Time with Grandkids, Family and Friends
91. Many Retirees Move Closer to Family
92. Plan to Spend Quality Time with Grandkids & Those You Love
93. Find Ways to Get Outside & Meet New Friends
94. Get Together with Friends or Family Members for Holidays & Other Events
95. Join Other Retirees for Trips by Bus or Other Means
96. Consider Becoming a Coach or Leader for a Children or Teen Group
97. Visit Area Arts & History Museums
98. Attend or Get Involved with Planning Community Events
99. Play Board & Learn How to Play Video Games with Grandkids
100. Host Dinners, Movie or Game Nights with Friends and Family
Ways to Get Fit and Tips for Staying Healthy in Your Golden Years
101. Join or Start a Walking Club
102. Go Hiking in Nearby Nature Sites That Have Paths
103. Take Aerobics, Dance or Other Exercise Classes
There are all sorts of great ways for retirees to exercise these days. Join a local fitness center, walk outdoors with friends or indoors at a local mall or find an exercise class that suits your specific interests. Try martial arts, cycling, rowing, swimming or water aerobics known to be better for those with joint and bone problems.
It’s crucial you create a workout routine to stay healthy during your retirement years.
104. Eat a Healthy Diet Full of Fresh Ingredients and Nutrients
Try to maintain or get to your healthy body weight. If overweight, consider joining a weight-loss group after consulting with your doctor to ensure your safety. Many community hospitals and colleges provide affordable nutrition and exercise related classes.
105. Consider Getting a Dog & Have Fun Walking and Playing with Your New Furry Friend
106. Determine to Quit Smoking or Drinking Too Much Alcohol
107. Take Up Tennis, Badminton or Other Outdoor Activity
108. Get the Proper Workout, Exercise or Sports Gear
Having the proper supportive shoes and other gear when planning to engage in more strenuous activities is a serious concern. The level of support that you may need can change with age and differences in physical form and strength.
109. Plan a Structured Day if Living Alone or if Prone to Depression or Anxiety
110. If Currently Single, Consider Re-entering the Dating Scene
Retirement Means You Have Time to Pamper Yourself
111. Get Up When You Want to Everyday
112. Indulge in Spa Beauty Treatments or Relax with a Professional Massage
113. Do Something Different with Your Hair
114. Head to a Casino, Enter Sweepstakes, Play the Lottery or Try Your Luck at the Races
115. Invest in a Bathroom Remodel with Luxury Features
116. Join a Local Yacht or Golf Club
117. Plan a Day or Weekend Shopping Trip with Friends
118. Enjoy a Fine Dining Experience with Music or Dancing Now & Then
119. Get a Comfy Recliner with Heat and Massage Features
120. Install a Home Sauna, Hot-Tub or Pool
Start a New Business or Begin a New Hobby That Makes You Happy
121. Consider Starting a Cake Decorating or Catering Business
122. Become a Handyman for Singles and Seniors That Can’t Do These Jobs
123. Take Up Scuba Diving, Kayaking, Canoeing or Sailing
124. Get a Camper or Motorhome to See Other Locales
125. Become a Tour Guide or Get Involved with Historic Reenactment Groups
126. Take Up Stained Glass Making, Macrame, Knitting or Crocheting
127. Become a Fashion Designer, Consultant or Seamstress
128. Start a Home Interior Design Business
129. Learn About Ancient Ruins & Go on an Archeology Dig
130. Breed Dogs or Get Involved with Dog Training or Dog Shows
Keep Your Mind and Soul Nourished and Fulfilled
131. Get More Involved with Your Church or Place of Worship
132. Learn How to Do Meditation & Practice Mindfulness
133. Consider Taking Yoga or Other Type of Stretching Exercise Type
134. Try to Maintain a More Positive Mental Outlook
135. Join a Church or Community Choir or Orchestra
136. Consider Teaching Sunday School or Vacation Bible School
137. Take a Trip to a Location That Is Important to Your Spiritual Beliefs
138. Take Steps to Decrease Stress in Your Life
139. Get Outdoors and Commune with Nature More
140. Read Spiritual Material or Listen to Teachings Online, on Podcasts, Radio or Television Shows
Plan Fun Social Diversions and Meet New Friends
141. Take Up Wood Carving, Sculpting or Watercolor Painting or Drawing
142. Try an Energetic Zumba Class
143. Go Paragliding or Sail High in a Hot-Air Balloon
144. Learn About Historic Sites, Local Lore & Volunteer at a Museum or Landmark Site
145. Take a Romantic Cruise with Your Love
146. Learn How to Create Floral Arrangements
147. Make Jewelry or Other Treasures to Sell or Gift to Others
148. Get a Drone & Learn to Fly One
149. Show Your Grandkids How to Build Models
150. Learn How to Use Computers or Other New Technologies
Final Thoughts
Take some time to plan for your upcoming retirement. Try some of the above retirement activity ideas or come up with your own unique retirement plan. The upcoming years could be the best that you have ever experienced.
Now that you know what you can do during your golden years, make sure to read this article to learn what you should avoid doing when in retirement.