Mental health is often overlooked in retirement years, but taking care of your mind and soul is just as important as taking care of your body. As we age, it is important to continue to build cognitive skills, keep memory sharp, and stay involved in social activities. All of these are crucial to maintaining a healthy mind!

Think on Your Feet!

Cognitive health is the ability to clearly think, learn, and remember—and it’s an important component of brain health, especially as you age. Staying quick witted and thinking clearly may take some work – but wellness doesn’t have to be a chore. Your retirement community may offer things like ‘lifelong’ learning courses or book clubs. You may be able to participate in trivia quizzes or game nights, where you can socialize and stay sharp!

Stay Social

Engaging with others in your daily activities is essential to overall wellness! Retirement is so different from the rest of your life – with no work and no expectations of where you need to be and when, it can be an adjustment! Staying active and interacting with friends is a great way to fight off any lonely feelings. Finding friendly faces at fitness classes or befriending a new neighbor in your community are simple ways to be social, stay busy, and have fun, too. Another way to meet new people is to volunteer in your community. Maybe you can tutor elementary schoolers, read books at a local library, or teach a young troop of Girl Scouts how to make some crafts. It’s never a bad idea to get involved in your community!

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help

Retirement itself, especially moving into a retirement home, is a big lifestyle change. Whether you feel lonely, have questions about your changing health needs, or want to talk to someone, it’s okay to ask for help! Many retirees may feel lost or hopeless without work; some are grieving the loss of friends, spouses, or family members; and, sometimes you can just feel hopeless no matter the circumstance. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and talk to someone about your mental health if you’re feeling overwhelmingly sad or depressed. Retirement can (and should!) turn out to be some of the best years of your life!