Your senior years can be the best years of your life if you add meaningful experiences to your days and keep yourself busy. Most people retire by age 69 and enter a new stage in life. Here are some ways seniors and retirees can improve their health and feel happier during retirement and beyond.

Start an Exercise Routine

One of the most beneficial things seniors can do for their health is to start an exercise routine. Experts recommend older adults do at least 150 minutes of exercise a week. This translates to about 30 minutes of exercise a day, five days a week. During retirement, you can take the time to find a physical activity that you enjoy frequently.

Revamp Your Diet

Your diet can also help improve overall health and keep you from struggling with chronic conditions as you age. Seniors should start eliminating processed or sugary foods from their diets and work on adding more nutritious choices. A diet of lean meats, healthy fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy can help prevent issues with heart disease, diabetes, and inflammation.

Downsize Your Life

Empty nesters and retirees can also get rid of clutter and unused items by downsizing. Some seniors take advantage of smaller family sizes during this period and relocate to a more compact home or senior apartment. Downsizing can help save more money each month and get rid of excess stuff you may be holding onto.

Connect With Old Friends

Next, consider reconnecting with old friends to help rebuild your social circle. Social isolation in seniors can cause mental health problems and increase feelings of stress. Combat this by connecting with friends from school, previous co-workers, and former neighbors through social media. Plan activities such as lunches, reunions, dinners, and gatherings to nurture friendships.

Give Back by Volunteering

With the extra time in your retirement schedule, you can feel a greater sense of purpose again by volunteering. Choose a cause close to your heart and seek volunteer opportunities for seniors in your community. Volunteering often benefits older adults with improved mental health and increased engagement.

Start Your Own Business

This may also be the right time to start your own business to stay busy and fulfilled. Running a small business can give you more direction and happiness in your life. If you need to hire capable workers, you may struggle with finding the right talent. Consider reaching out to a qualified staffing agency to help fill your hiring needs with top-tier people, especially if you don’t have the time to sift through profiles, resumes, and skills.

Add Yoga to Your Routine

Some seniors go a step further in their physical fitness goals and add a mind-body routine such as yoga or Pilates. Mind-body exercise helps reduce chronic pain, inflammation, and stress. This activity may also improve range of motion and provide more mobility as you age.

Adopt a Pet 

Finally, your golden years may be the right time to adopt a pet. If you’re feeling lonely, adopting a furry companion such as a dog or cat can prove a great way to give you some company.

Make the best of your senior years by improving your physical health and mental well-being. Keep yourself occupied with hobbies, volunteer jobs, exercise, friends, pets, or a new business to give you the fulfillment you need.

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