Are you a senior who is currently living in the vibrant and busy city of Chicago? Have you entered your retirement years and you find yourself slowing down a bit and need your lifestyle to better reflect your current needs? Aging is a beautiful thing in that you’ve been given the time to enter a new phase of life, but it can also require changes on your part.Â
Here’s a look at four tips that are meant for seniors living in Chicago who want a less stressful lifestyle and who are ready to make some adjustments both big and small.
Throw Away the Schedule
During your working years, there’s a good chance you lived by a schedule. You had to wake up at a certain time, be at work during specific hours, potentially deal with commuting to and from, and if you had a family – all the responsibilities of parenting.Â
During your senior years, this is the time to throw away the schedule. Now is the time to live a more relaxed lifestyle, which means taking things as they come. Outside of appointments, there is no reason you have to do anything at a specific time and date. Learn what it’s like to live in the moment instead.
Pursue a New Hobby
Hobbies are a great way to combat stress and help you slow down, and there is no time like the present to pursue a new one. Don’t let fear of the unknown hold you back. When it comes to hobbies there’s no need to be perfect, it’s just about finding an activity that brings you joy and satisfaction.
Some of the best hobbies for seniors can include:
- Crafting
- Painting
- Knitting
- Puzzles
- Playing an instrument
- Reading
- Gardening
- Photography
It’s Never Too Late to Lead an Active Lifestyle
Even if you weren’t the type to be active in your younger years, it’s never too late to start. Leading an active lifestyle not only helps to reduce stress, it’s also great for your overall physical well-being. You can engage in solo activities, group or even senior team sports. If you are specifically seeking low-impact activities consider swimming, walking, Tai Chi, yoga or Pilates.
Consider Senior Living to Drastically Reduce Your Responsibilities
Whether you need a little assistance in the day or something more involved like memory care, senior living accommodations and communities can be a great solution. The options for senior housing in Chicago may surprise you, as you’ll find senior living that still gives you a sense of independence just with a little help when needed.Â
These senior living communities and facilities tend to offer all kinds of programs, activities, presentations, and more which means you’ll never be bored or lonely. Just be sure to find one that meets your physical and medical needs. If you’ve been thinking of downsizing, this is a great way to do it.
Your Senior Years Can Be Some of Your Best
Using these tips and recognizing when it’s time to eliminate some of the stress in your life can help ensure that your senior years are some of your best ones.