Things To Do Once You’re Retired

We work for decades waiting for that day we can finally retire, to relax and enjoy the fruits of our labor.  Many of us go into retirement with a rough idea of how we will spend our days, only to find that we get bored  after a few months. Next thing we know we’re plastered in front of the computer or TV, feeling frustrated and dissatisfied.

That’s why the team at Topeka Presbyterian Manor compiled this list of things to do — for when you’re no longer at the mercy of your to-do list.

Explore a new hobby or interest.

It can be personally rewarding to discover new creative or educational pursuits. Free and low-cost online and in-person classes make it easy to learn about your favorite topics — art, music, literature, history, science, technology, finance, cooking, baking and more. You can also immerse yourself in how-to videos on YouTube. The endless amount of content can keep you occupied with an array of projects that you’ve always wanted to try.

Focus on physical fitness.

Retirement is also a good time to work on your physical fitness, especially if you’ve been desk-bound and sedentary during your career. Start slowly with stretching and a daily walk. Get a fitness tracking device to monitor your progress. Download exercise apps, look for free videos online, or join a local senior center with fitness equipment. Getting back in shape doesn’t have to be expensive or intimidating.

Visit local attractions.

How many weekends have gone by when you wished you had the time (and energy) to go to a local festival, concert, exhibition, or other special event? Now that you’re retired, you can work some extra fun into your schedule. Visit popular attractions during the week, while other people are at work. Enjoy a museum, zoo, botanical garden, or public park. State parks, in particular, offer affordable day trips. Annual park passes make it even easier to visit new places on a budget.

Travel to a dream destination.

On the other hand, if you’ve always dreamed of traveling the country or the world, now is the time to do it.  Research your dream destination. Look around online, talk to friends, and/or meet with a travel agent. Decide if you want to visit during a special holiday — such as Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day or New York City on New Year’s Eve. Or choose the opposite tact and travel when tourism rates are traditionally low. Maybe you finally want to take that Rhine River cruise, go whale-watching in the Pacific Northwest, or satisfy your inner child with a trip to a famous theme park. As Shakespeare wrote, “the world is your oyster.”

Work a part-time job.

Some seniors choose to work a part-time job to keep money coming in, while others do it for the human interaction. You can get paid for learning a new skill in which you’ve always been interested. Spend your days in an environment you love, like a bookstore or florist. Do “gig work” as ride service driver, virtual assistant, babysitter, dog walker, tutor, or another valuable role. Many companies also look for older workers to help fill contract and as-needed roles that leverage your professional knowledge and experience. Look for opportunities on LinkedIn and job boards like Indeed or Monster. AARP has a job board for people aged 50 and older, where employers are specifically looking for seasoned individuals.

Find purpose through volunteerism.

Many people do volunteer during their working years. However, retirement offers an opportunity to give more of your time and energy in service to others. You can volunteer at an animal shelter, food pantry, or church daycare. Help adults learn how to read or speak English. Deliver meals on wheels to homebound individuals. Participate in healthcare or housing outreach to underserved communities. Join a group that’s protecting the environment through clean-ups and other activities. There are countless ways that you can give back.

Making new friends.

We saved the best for last! One of the most rewarding things you can do in retirement is meet new people who add interest and excitement to your life.

Our residents at Topeka Presbyterian Manor find friendship and fellowship among their neighbors. We make it easy to mix and mingle by offering a variety of monthly activities, programs and events. That means fitness groups, concerts and speakers, Bible study, card games, book clubs, birthday parties, day trips, and more. You’ll never have a dull moment in retirement when you join us here.

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Helpful Resources

25 Things to Do When You Retire

Living a Life of Purpose after Retirement

What To Do When You Don’t Know What To Do In Retirement

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