Improving one’s quality of life in 2021 is different than it has been, even in the recent past. It’s no secret that the pandemic caught us all by surprise. And, it has caused us to adapt to a new way of life for the foreseeable future. Fortunately, the vaccine rollout is allowing us to start dreaming again. We are considering what our new normal will be. While it’s not quite here yet, it is crucial to continue to find joy in the present moment. We don’t want to waste of minute of our golden years.
Regardless of our future dreams, you can start today to improve your quality of life. No matter what your budget, or current home, follow these tips and start a revolution to improve your quality of life in 2021.
Stick to a Routine
After retirement, it is easy to forget about how important a routine is. In the first months and maybe years of retirement, its normal and healthy to kick back and relax, to take a holiday and rediscover what it means to live a slower life. However, our purpose, passions, hobbies, that keep us moving will also help create a life we enjoy. If you don’t have a routine, get started by taking out pen and paper! Play on paper with a structure for your day and the weeks ahead. You’re in charge. I think you’ll notice that the very act of planning a routine will energize and motivate you. Now more than ever, motivation is important to help us get through these challenging years.
Try Something New
Life does not end after retirement, or at 60, 70, or 80! Whatever now is for you is the best time to take up a new hobby or reawaken a passion set aside for too long. Take a class, learn a new language, or join a yoga or tai-chi class. One simple choice like the last can do much more than help you get back in shape and regain your energy. It can help you meet new friends and be a part of a community.
Upgrade Your Home
As remain sheltered in our homes for the months ahead, it’s a great opportunity to consider your home needs for the future. Is it safe, comfortable, and optimized for your mental and physical health? Start by investing in appropriate appliances and furniture, and safety measures. Create a healthier environment by getting rid of clutter, opening the windows, and letting the fresh air and sunshine in.
Keep in Touch With Your Loved Ones
We all miss our family and friends. However, technology has been a definite plus throughout these periods of isolation to help us feel closer to our loved ones, and still be safe! If you are not sure how to use technology to connect, don’t bey shy, ask for help. Reach out on Facebook, or call a friend of family member. Join the Aging Abundantly Community and get to know women who have been where you are now.
Consider Finding Live-In Care
Sometimes, we realize that we need someone to care for us. In this case, opting for assisted living or live-in care can help us live our life to the fullest. Having a specialized professional by your side can help you fight loneliness, find companionship, and have the support in time of need. Having the peace of mind of having a trained professional by your side is invaluable.
The other option is to consider independent senior living if the idea of live-in care is just too much. This could help to offer a level of independence and a better balance. But having both options should help you to find a good solution.
Four of the five tips resonate with me because I’ve practiced them.
Not ready for live-in care yet. I hope that is a long way off, but one never knows.
Great tips! I especially like the routine one. But I found building in some flexibility is important as one doesn’t want to be stuck in a rut. I recall offering to take my in-laws out for a drive and lunch one day and they said they couldn’t join us as it was the day they picked up their mail. I decided right then that I would never get like that when I got older.
I tend to err in the direction of spontaneity myself! Good point, as I think we tend to get more rigid as we get older.