While many people look forward to retirement and the possibilities it offers, it’s also normal to feel overwhelmed by the transition. After all, retirement is a major life change that can impact people in different ways. In fact, retirement may leave you pondering your sense of purpose and what to do with your free time.
As the “work” chapter of your life closes, another begins – bringing with it new opportunities and a chance to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The key to enjoying this time depends on how you adjust to your new normal.
Why Creating Your New Normal Is Important
No matter how excited you are to embrace a new retirement lifestyle, the transition can also bring about a range of unexpected emotions that you hadn’t considered while in the trenches of retirement planning, such as:
- Feelings of depression or anxiety related to a lack of purpose or fulfillment
- Increasing restlessness and boredom
- Difficulty coping with uncertainty about the future
- Problems with letting go and relaxing
- Challenges staying socially and physically active
- Feeling isolated and lonely after leaving the workforce
It’s important to address these feelings to enhance your emotional, mental, and physical health during your retirement years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) shares that seniors who are isolated or lonely may experience:
- An increased risk of premature death
- A 50% increased risk of dementia
- A 29% increased risk of heart disease
- A 32% increased risk of stroke
- Higher rates of depression and anxiety
Given these statistics, it’s critical to ensure that you have the right tools and plan in place to combat these types of emotions. Learn how you can create your own new normal after retirement with the help of a senior living community like Waterstone of Westchester.
Transitioning to Your New Normal
Are you looking for what to do after retiring? Many seniors find that adjusting to retirement is easier in a senior living community. This is because of the social groups, events, clubs, and programs that are offered – all with the goal of keeping residents engaged, active, and enjoying their new retirement lifestyle.
At Waterstone of Westchester, our community is designed to help you fully enjoy a carefree, active retirement lifestyle. Whether you’re considering senior living or are trying to navigate your future retirement plans, check out some of these tips for a smoother transition.
Explore your passions or find a new purpose.
Retirement is the perfect time to get involved in everything you’ve wanted to do prior to retirement but didn’t have the time or energy to do or accomplish. If you want to restart a hobby you had previously put on hold because you were too busy, or if you’d prefer to find something else that ignites your spirit, the possibilities at Waterstone are truly endless.
- Sharpen your crafting skills
- Learn how to play an instrument
- Cook – or bake – something new in the kitchen (use our chef’s demonstrations as inspiration!)
- Join a special interest group with new friends
- Catch up on your to-watch list with a movie in the theater
- Check out the book club’s latest read
- Start your own club based on your favorite hobby
- Pursue lifelong learning
- Explore local attractions
With all of these opportunities and more offered at Waterstone of Westchester, it’s easy to explore your passions and find new purpose in your everyday life.
Focus on health and wellness.
Staying active is important for everyone, but especially for older adults who have retired. Be sure to focus on all aspects of wellness, including physical, social, emotional and spiritual. At Waterstone of Westchester, residents enjoy:
- Swimming in the indoor heated pool
- Working out with professional trainers
- Taking advantage of the mind-body studio and juice bar
- Adding walking to their routine
- Trying new classes like yoga or tai chi
Travel and spend time with loved ones.
One of the perks of retiring for many older people is spending more time with family and friends and having more opportunities to travel. Whether you spend your early retirement exploring or building your social network immediately, the possibilities are endless.
- Travel to see far-away relatives
- Explore the town with your friends and family
- Enjoy new activities alongside those you love
- Attend grandkids’ sporting events, performances, and award ceremonies
Even better, senior living communities make it easier to travel and spend time with those you love. At a community like Waterstone of Westchester, you can lock your apartment and go – without worrying about your home security and maintenance – allowing you to travel more freely with ease and peace of mind.
If you are someone who prefers to have family and friends come to you, it’s easy at our senior living community. Enjoy time together in the comfort of your apartment at Waterstone, have dinner in the private dining room, or enjoy community activities with family and friends.
Set a routine.
After enjoying full-time work or a vibrant social life, many retired people find that a routine is essential. Establishing a routine can be a great way to ensure you get involved, prevent depression, and keep active. At Waterstone of Westchester, it’s even easier.
- Full schedule of daily activities to enjoy
- Anytime dining – allowing residents to choose their schedule
- Common areas for socialization abound
- Variety of special events, outings and opportunities available
Consider volunteer opportunities or work.
If retiring all at once is difficult for you, there are some ways to combat this, including still working full time at a job you love, holding a part-time job, or simply volunteering in a field you’re passionate about. Some seniors, including our own residents, find fulfillment in:
- Tutoring
- Continuing their chosen career
- Embracing a new career that they’ve wanted to try
- Serving as a mentor
- Volunteering for causes they’re passionate about
- Leading resident committees
If You’re Having Trouble Adjusting
Whether you lean on friends, family, co-workers, or the team at Waterstone of Westchester, having support can make all the difference. Seek support from these sources, or if you’re not yet a resident of a senior living community, see whether that’s an avenue you’d like to explore.
To learn more about how Waterstone of Westchester can help you create your new normal in retirement, schedule a visit today.
WATERSTONE OF WESTCHESTER. NOW THIS IS HOME.
Waterstone of Westchester is a brand-new, premier independent senior living community in White Plains, NY. We’re close to exquisite shopping, fine dining and cultural attractions. Come visit our beautiful location to see how Waterstone puts wellness at the heart of our community.