In my last post, I introduced the idea of aging actively, which basically means staying as physically and mentally active as you can while you age in an effort to live a longer, healthier, more fulfilled life. In that post, I provided a list of ideas for how to stay physically active. Today I want to offer a list of suggestions for staying mentally and emotionally active as you age.
- Start or join a book club. Monthly get-togethers to discuss a book you have all read are a wonderful way to keep your mind and social calendar active.
- Volunteer your time helping those in need based on your interests. Your local homeless shelter, library, animal rescue groups, and schools are always looking for help.
- Take a class at your local community college. Many schools offer classes outside of the regular curriculum at night or on weekends in subjects such as creative writing, acting, foreign language, or arts and crafts.
- Get involved in your neighborhood association. You can serve in a leadership role, such as in a Neighborhood Watch program.
- Start a hobby group with friends, such as knitting, scrapbooking, or crafting. You can get together weekly or monthly and work on your craft as a group.
- Get into crosswords, Sudoku, or other mind puzzles. These solitary activities are great to activate the mind and keep you alert.
- Do that thing you always wanted to do but never had the time for due to family or work obligations, such as write that novel or travel to the national parks.
- Keep a journal and write in it every day. Putting your daily thoughts in writing will help you work through emotional issues and focus your mind.
- Start or join a purely social group. You can convene at the local coffee shop once a month to visit and share stories.Mentor a young person either in an academic or a professional pursuit. Share your knowledge and experience with the next generation for the benefit of yourself and your mentee.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to being active, regardless of your age and capabilities. Focus on learning something new, staying involved with others, and moving your body and you will do well over the long haul.
What are your ideas for keeping an active mind and body? Questions about how to get involved in any of the ideas listed?
-Dr. Erica Miller