3 Tips to Make your Golden Years More Fun

(NC) In a world that may seem designed for the young, getting older can feel like you’re becoming invisible. But, of course, you don’t simply stop having fun as you age. Here are some tips to help keep you on your toes to take advantage of the best years of your life.

1. Make a bucket list

Though it may be a bit cliché, making a list of things you want to accomplish in the remainder of your life can be a great exercise to understand your priorities and your desired retirement style. Even if you don’t draft a detailed list, give it some thought: Do you crave adventure and new activities, or are you looking forward to slowing down and relaxing? Maybe a bit of both? Recognizing these broad goals can help you realize what will bring you the most fun and enjoyment as you’re making plans.

2. Find fun fitness

Physical activity is crucial to your overall health and wellness, and it is never too late to get started. In fact, in retirement, you may be able to devote more time to activity than you ever did in the past. Whether you walk just half the golf course, dance in the kitchen, or join a traditional fitness class, the key is to try out different activities to find one you enjoy. Don’t be afraid to make modifications to your ability if you’re worried about injuries.

3. Get connected online

If you’re not totally comfortable on the internet, you’re not alone. But it can be a great resource to enrich your social life and help maintain your independence. Try getting your grandkids to teach you their favorite online video games; join social media and participate in groups and forums and reconnect with family and friends you normally call once a year. Just be sure to take the time to brush up on how to stay cyber-safe.

Scammers often target older adults assuming they are more vulnerable. So, prove them wrong, and watch out for red flags like strange or threatening requests. Don’t give out personal information like your address, social insurance number, or mother’s maiden name, and never send money to someone you’ve only met online. Some scammers will target seniors pretending to be family members. So if you get an urgent message from a relative in need, reach out to them through another means like by telephone to verify it’s really them.

If anyone requests something sensitive, block them and report them to the platform you’re on.